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The Miraculous Medal, also known as the Medal of the Immaculate Conception, is deeply rooted in the Marian apparitions experienced by Saint Catherine Labouré in 1830. The design and inscriptions on the medal are significant, as they reflect the theological understanding of Mary's role in salvation history, particularly her Immaculate Conception.
Key Aspects of the Miraculous Medal.
Inscriptions: The traditional inscription on the Miraculous Medal includes the phrase
"O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee."
“Maria sine labe concepta, ora pro nobis ad te confugientibus.”
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
"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 invocation emphasizes Mary's role as an intercessor and highlights the doctrine of her Immaculate Conception, which teaches that Mary was conceived without original sin.
Canonical Inquiry: Official recognition of an apparition, such as that associated with the Miraculous Medal, requires a canonical inquiry. This process ensures that the medal's design and inscriptions align with Church teachings and the intentions of the apparitions.
Theological Significance: The phrase "who have recourse to thee" is essential as it invites the faithful to seek Mary's intercession actively. The absence of this phrase in the inscription may alter the intended devotional aspect of the medal.
Considerations for the Inscription.
Validity of the Medal: While the medal with the inscription "regina sine labe originali concepta opn" (Queen conceived without original sin, pray for us) may still hold personal significance, it deviates from the traditional wording that has been widely recognized and used in devotion.
Purchasing a New Medal: If adherence to the traditional form and the full invocation is important, it may be advisable to consider purchasing a new Miraculous Medal that includes the complete inscription. This would ensure alignment with the established devotion and the theological implications of the medal.
Conclusion.
In summary, while the medal with the current inscription may still be meaningful, it does not fully satisfy the traditional rules associated with the Miraculous Medal due to the omission of "who have recourse to thee." For those who wish to fully embrace the devotion as intended, acquiring a medal with the complete and canonical inscription would be recommended.