The Miraculous Medal was designed as the result of the first apparition of the Virgin Mary to St Catherine Labouré in the 19th century. Since then, the mystical vision of the young novice has become a very popular devotional item associated with miracles and conversions. Many Catholics wear a Miraculous Medal.
Let’s see why do they do it, and why should we wear a Miraculous Medal, too.
1. To Respect the Virgin Mary’s Will
The story goes, that when the Virgin Mary appeared to Saint Catherine Labouré, She instructed the young novice to craft a medal struck upon the vision. According to Miraculous Medal Promises, those who wear it will receive great graces, especially if they wear it around their neck. Apparently, the Virgin Mary also told Catherine that the medal must be given to the whole world because everyone should have had the chance of wearing the Miraculous Medal.
2. Because we Need Miracles
Originally, it was called the Medal of the Immaculate Conception. But in less than ten years it became famous as the Miraculous Medal because of the many graces and miraculous events that became associated with wearing it. Moreover, having the Medal always around our necks reminds us to pray and meditate every day.
3. Because Heroic and Charismatic Women and Men Have Worn it
One for all, Mother Teresa of Calcutta. She called it a “medal of charity” and declared that the medal was a “tangible sign that God loves each and every individual at each and every moment of our lives”.
4. It Reminds us to Ask for Help
We have already explained the meaning of the images depicted on the medal. About the rays coming from some of the Virgin Mary’s fingers, as far as we know they symbolize the graces that God will give through Her but only to those who ask for them.
5. It is an Outward Sign of Faith
We use symbols, objects, and colors to share values, ideas, as well as interests with the others. The sense of belonging is a human need, and symbols often help us feel part of a community. Wearing a Miraculous Medal empowers this feeling. It reminds us of our faith, and communicate it to the others.
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