The Hidden Symbolism in the Miraculous Medal
Do you wear a Miraculous Medal?
The Catholic Church celebrates the feasts of the Miraculous Medal and Saint Catherine Laboure on November 27 and 28. It was Saint Catherine Laboure who first received this devotion in 1830.
The History of the Miraculous Medal
During one of many apparitions to French nun Saint Catherine Laboure, Our Lady gave us the Miraculous Medal we know today.
She provided instructions to have a medal made with the image, explaining that great graces are given to those who wear the medal with confidence.
The medal was originally referred to as the “Medal of the Immaculate Conception,” which foreshadowed the declaration of the official Marian dogma of the Immaculate Conception by Pope Pius IX.
However, it soon became known as the Miraculous Medal due to the miracles that followed.
Both the front and back of the Miraculous Medal are rich in symbolism. Knowing the meaning behind the Miraculous Medal makes wearing one even more special.
Below you will find more on the symbolic nature of the Miraculous Medal!
Front of the Medal
1. Prayer
"O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee!"
2. Rays
Through her intercession, she sends God’s grace to the world.
3. Feet on Globe and Serpent
The globe represents the world and the serpent is Satan. Mary helps the world fight against evil.
4. The Year 1830
The Blessed Mother gave Saint Catherine Laboure the design of the Miraculous Medal in 1830.
Reverse Side of the Medal
5. Twelve Stars
There are twelve Apostles, representing the Church.
6. Letter "M" with the Cross
The "M" of Mary and the Cross of her son, Jesus Christ, are intertwined, representing their union.
7. Two Flaming Hearts
The left heart circled with thorns represents the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The right Heart, pierced by a sword, represents the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
Act of Consecration to Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal
O Virgin Mother of God, Mary Immaculate,
we dedicate and consecrate ourselves to you
under the title of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal.
May this Medal be for each one of us a sure sign of your
affection for us and a constant reminder of our duties toward you.
Ever while wearing it, may we be blessed by your loving
protection and preserved in the grace of your Son.
O most powerful Virgin, Mother of our Savior,
keep us close to you every moment of our lives.
Obtain for us, your children, the grace of a happy death;
so that, in union with you, we may enjoy the bliss of heaven forever. Amen.
O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have
recourse to you. (3 times.)
Prayer Source: EWTN