The Meanings Behind Different Miraculous Medals
At the end of 2019, there were 1.34 billion Catholics in the world. Surprisingly, the number of Catholics is increasing everywhere (except Europe).
Whether you were born Catholic but not practicing, not religious at all, or want to become a convert, perhaps you want to know a little more about this religion. A great place to start would be with miraculous medals, as these are iconic in the Catholic faith.
So what are miraculous medals? Read on to find out!
What Are Miraculous Medals?
It’s a bit inaccurate to call it miraculous medals, as there’s actually just one. The Miraculous Medal (originally called the Medal of the Immaculate Conception) is perhaps the most important medal in all of Catholicism. This is because it was both designed and revealed by the Virgin Mary.
First, the Virgin Mary appeared to St. Catherine Laboure in July 1830 and had a deep conversation with her. Then she appeared to St. Catherine once again in November at the Rue de Bac Chapel.
This time, the Virgin Mary showed St. Catherine an image of Her with rays of light, standing on a globe. And there was this text on it as well: “O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.”
The Virgin Mary wanted this design made on a medal that people could wear as a necklace. If they did so, they’d be blessed.
And in 1832, after the Catholic Church approved, Miraculous Medals were made in Paris. Those who wore one claimed to be blessed.
St. Catherine died in 1876. But by that time, Miraculous Medals made it to several countries, and over a billion Miraculous Medals had been created!
While several medals were created, there are only 10 existing today (you can find one at the Miraculous Medal Shrine).
What Are Some Other Catholic Medals?
There’s only 1 Miraculous Medal, there are plenty of other medals and crucifix jewelry for patron saints and Archangels.
For example, there are St. Michael the Archangel chains. He is the patron saint of soldiers, doctors, the sick, and the police. Not only does he protect wearers of this jewelry, but he also escorts faithful Catholics up to Heaven after death.
There’s also Saint Dymphna, who is the patron saint of those who have anxiety and other mental health issues. Another example is St. Sebastian, who is the patron saint of soldiers and athletes.
Show Your Faith With Catholic Jewelry
As you can see, “miraculous medals” isn’t correct, as there’s just 1 Miraculous Medal. Yes, there are several copies, but it’s tough to get your hands on one, seeing as there are only 10 left in the world.
If you want to show your devotion to the Catholic faith, you should opt for other patron saint pendants instead. With so many to protect and watch over you, you’re sure to find one that you’re drawn to.
If you want to read more about religion and other life matters, then keep browsing our blog page.
