Description
- The Virgin Mary standing with arms open, palms facing outward
- Rays flowing from her hands, symbolizing graces given to those who ask
- She stands upon clouds, often with a serpent beneath her feet (the serpent can be subtle or worn away on older medals), symbolizing victory over evil
The inscription
The Latin text around the edge reads:
“O Maria sine labe concepta, ora pro nobis qui ad te confugimus”
“O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.”
This phrase directly references the Immaculate Conception.
Origin & meaning
- Designed after visions reported by Saint Catherine Labouré in Paris, 1830
- Called “miraculous” because of the many healings, protections, and conversions attributed to it
- Traditionally worn as a protective and devotional medal.
