Mary’s Image
Mary stands on a globe, crushing the serpent — a sign of her triumph over evil through Christ.
The Miraculous Medal
Devotion revealed to St. Catherine Labouré in 1830
The Blessed Virgin appeared to St. Catherine Labouré in Paris, showing her a medal with rays of grace flowing from her hands. Mary promised great blessings to those who wear it with faith. Its inscription — “O Mary, conceived without sin…” — proclaims the Immaculate Conception.
The Meaning and Symbols of the Medal
Rays of Grace
Rays from her hands signify graces given to those who ask with confidence.
Reverse Side
The “M” entwined with the Cross, surrounded by 12 stars, and the Sacred and Immaculate Hearts express Mary’s union with Jesus.
Prayers of the Miraculous Medal
Invocation
“O Mary, conceived without sin…”
O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. (Repeat 3 times)
Prayer of St. Catherine Labouré
Inspired by the apparition in 1830
O Immaculate Virgin Mary, Mother of Our Lord Jesus and our Mother, with the most lively confidence in your all-powerful intercession, we implore your aid. Obtain for us the graces we need, and above all, the grace of a holy death. Amen.