St. Benedict was devoted to the Cross. The biography of St. Benedict describes how he would call on Christ by making the Sign of the Cross in times of great need. Because of the power of the Cross, St. Benedict overcame temptations and performed many miracles. As a spiritual father, St. Benedict challenged his sons to make the Sign of the Cross on their chest during times of temptation. At their solemn profession, St. Benedict prescribed that each monk make his vows before God at the altar and then make the Sign of the Cross on the document.
The Cross of St. Benedict is a Crucifix with the Medal of St. Benedict on the front and back. The letters on the Medal of St. Benedict stand for the words of an ancient exorcism prayer. Also on the Medal, St. Benedict is pictured holding the Cross. Crosses are most often made out of metal or wood. This free standing Cross was carved by Christians in Bethlehem, Israel.
Looking for a description of the Medal and Cross of St. Benedict? This book is good. The Medal or Cross of St. Benedict was first published in 1880. It details the origin, meaning and privileges the Church has attached to the Medal and Cross of St. Benedict. This copy was purchased at the Leaflet Missal Company in St. Paul, Minnesota.
“The cross is an object of terror to the evil spirits; they ever crouch in terror before it; they no sooner see it than they let go their prey and take flight. In a word, of such importance to Christians is the cross and the blessing it brings along with it, that from the times of the Apostles, down to our own age, the faithful have ever been accustomed frequently to make the sign of the cross upon themselves…” page 3
Like our founder, Benedictine monks are devoted to the Cross of Jesus Christ.