St. Benedict Crucifixes

The St. Benedict Crucifix, also known as the Happy Death Crucifix, combines two of the Church’s most powerful sacramentals: the Crucifix of Our Lord and the St. Benedict Medal.  The wooden crucifix may be blessed with the Happy Death Indulgence, while the St. Benedict medal is blessed with powerful exorcism prayers of the Church. Because of these blessings, the St. Benedict Crucifix is widely regarded as a powerful sacramental of protection against evil and is the crucifix most commonly used by exorcists.  The St. Benedict Crucifix can be a great spiritual aid at the hour of death, when the temptations of Satan are strongest.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the St. Benedict Crucifix?

A St. Benedict Crucifix combines the traditional crucifix with the St. Benedict Medal, one of the most powerful sacramentals of the Church. It is widely used as a prayer for protection against evil, for strength in times of temptation, and for spiritual peace.

Who was St. Benedict?

St. Benedict of Nursia (480–547) is the father of Western monasticism and author of the Rule of St. Benedict, a guide to Christian life centered on prayer, humility, and obedience to God.

What do the symbols on the St. Benedict Medal mean?

The medal features a cross, Latin prayers of exorcism, and images connected to St. Benedict’s life, including a raven and a poisoned cup. These symbols represent Christ’s victory over evil and God’s protection through the prayers of St. Benedict.  More about the symbolism behind the St. Benedict medal can be found here. 

How is a St. Benedict Crucifix used?

Many Catholics place a St. Benedict Crucifix in their home, prayer space, or near their bedside, especially as a prayer for protection and grace. It is also often used by priests during deliverance and exorcism prayers.  Certain sizes are small enough to be used as a rosary crucifix.

Why is it called a "Happy Death crucifix" and what is the "Happy Death Indulgence"?

When made of wood a crucifix may be blessed with the Happy Death indulgence, making it a powerful sacramental to keep nearby during one’s final hours.  In order to come to the aid of the dying and to remit the temporal punishment that they would have to expiate in Purgatory, the Church blesses "Happy Death Crucifixes."  She attaches to them a plenary indulgence that can be gained at the hour of death.  "Each of the faithful," says St. Pius X, "who kisses one of these crucifixes thus blessed even if it is not his, or touches it in some way can gain a plenary indulgence on the condition that having confessed and received Holy Communion (or if that's not possible having at least contrition for his sins), he invokes devoutly and sincerely, even if he can't with his lips, the Most Holy Name of Jesus and accepts with resignation death from the hand of God as a chastisement for sin. " (Declaration of the Holy Office, June 11, 1914).

Are St. Benedict Crucifixes blessed?

It is very important to have St. Benedict crucifixes, as is the case with all sacramentals, blessed by a Priest in order to obtain the spiritual benefits of that sacramental.  The St. Benedict crucifix can be blessed with the St. Benedict medal exorcism, the special blessing for crucifixes, and in the case of wood versions be given the Happy death indulgence.  Our crucifixes are not automatically blessed, but we are happy to have this done before shipping your order.  Please mention in the comment section of your order that you would like your crucifix blessed by a Priest.

What types of St. Benedict Crucifixes are available?

St. Benedict Crucifixes come in a variety of sizes, materials, and styles, including wood, metal, silver-tone, and antique finishes, suitable for home display, prayer corners, or personal devotion.

Testimonials

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– Mary, Minnesota, USA

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– R.C., New York, USA

“I received my sterling silver Pardon Crucifix yesterday. It was such a pleasure to receive it. Everything was packaged and presented with such care and finesse. The crucifix was crafted with such intricate and beautiful details that it does not do justice to look at it through the Internet. One has to order it to relish what a beautiful piece of art it is. Again, the manner you package the crucifix, the enclosures contained within, and the quality of craftmanship itself has totally exceeded my expectations.”

– K.W.C.

“I recently purchased a cord rosary from the Sisters of Carmel. I have to say the quality and craftsmanship was far beyond my expectations. I was so impressed I ordered two more rosaries as gifts. God bless the Sisters of Carmel and God bless your ministry! Your rosaries, in my opinion, are of the finest quality anywhere.”

- Chris

“When I asked my priest to bless my new scapular, it took his breath away by its handmade beauty. I told him it had been made with loving hands by the Sisters of Carmel. I felt the Holy Spirit say to give it to him. I did. He was overwhelmed. I ordered another one for myself and it arrived today. I love it. It is so beautiful. I will kiss it every day. I am eager to have it blessed tomorrow and wear it immediately. Thank you.”

– Anonymous

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- Julia

“Once again the best. I appreciate you quickly sending me the scapular. I could have gone locally to purchase one, but I truly appreciate your craftsmanship and customer service.”

- Linda

“This is the most beautiful rosary I have ever seen crafted. Combining high quality materials, skillful labor, and loving prayer, the Carmelite Sisters are hands down the best choice to go with when shopping for rosaries. Reasonably priced, quick delivery, and wonderful customer service, I will DEFINITELY be ordering all of my future rosary purchases from ”

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