St Benedict Wooden Crucifix Necklace | Croci da Collo (8 cm)

St Benedict Wooden Crucifix Necklace | Croci da Collo (8 cm)

From the ancient, faith-filled streets of Rome, Santa Gloria is honored to present a piece of devotional jewelry that is more than just an adornment; it is a shield, a prayer, and a profound declaration of faith. We invite you to experience the spiritual depth and artisanal beauty of our St. Benedict Wooden Crucifix Necklace. This exceptional piece, known in our Italian tradition as a “Croci da Collo” (Neck Cross), is meticulously crafted for the devout soul, bringing together the ultimate symbol of Christ’s love—the Crucifix—with one of the most powerful sacramentals of protection in the Catholic Church, the Medal of St. Benedict.

In a world filled with noise, uncertainty, and spiritual challenges, we seek tangible reminders of God’s eternal presence and protection. This necklace is not merely an accessory; it is a companion for your spiritual journey. It is a quiet source of strength worn close to the heart, a conversation starter about the faith you hold dear, and a powerful instrument against the forces of evil.

Each element, from the warm, humble wood to the intricately detailed metalwork, has been chosen and assembled with prayerful intention by skilled Italian artisans. Here at Santa Gloria, nestled in the heart of Christendom, we understand that religious articles are conduits of grace. Allow us to share the story, power, and purpose of this extraordinary St. Benedict Crucifix Necklace with you.

A Fortress for the Soul: The Unwavering Power of the St. Benedict Medal

At the very heart of this crucifix, positioned in a place of honor, rests the sacred Medal of St. Benedict. To understand the significance of this necklace, one must first appreciate the immense spiritual power encapsulated in this small medal. It is not an amulet or a charm, but a sacramental of the Church—a holy object that, through the prayers of the faithful, prepares us to receive grace and disposes us to cooperate with it. Its origins are tied to the incredible life of St. Benedict of Nursia, the 5th-century father of Western Monasticism.

Catholic Devotional Jewellery

St. Benedict was a man who lived in intimate communion with God, and his life was marked by numerous miracles and victories over evil. The most famous accounts, chronicled by Pope St. Gregory the Great, tell of his triumph over attempts to poison him. On one occasion, a raven miraculously swept away a loaf of poisoned bread. On another, when offered a poisoned cup of wine, St. Benedict made the Sign of the Cross over it, and the cup shattered. From these events, the tradition of the St. Benedict Medal as a powerful defense against poison, temptation, and all forms of evil was born.

Wearing this medal is to carry a prayer of exorcism and protection with you at all times. The inscriptions on it are a potent prayer against the powers of darkness. Let’s look closer at the sacred lettering you will find on your crucifix:

• The Cross of St. Benedict: The front of the medal is dominated by a large cross. Within the arms of the cross are the letters C. S. S. M. L. – N. D. S. M. D., which stand for the Latin prayer:
  • Crux sacra sit mihi lux! Nunquam draco sit mihi dux!
  • “May the holy cross be my light! May the dragon never be my guide!”
• The Initials Around the Cross: In the four quadrants surrounding the cross are the letters C. S. P. B. for Crux Sancti Patris Benedicti or “The Cross of our Holy Father Benedict.”
• The Inscriptions on the Outer Edge: Encircling the entire medal are the letters V. R. S. N. S. M. V. – S. M. Q. L. I. V. B. This is the Vade retro Satana prayer of exorcism:
  • Vade retro Satana! Nunquam suade mihi vana! Sunt mala quae libas. Ipse venena bibas!
  • “Begone, Satan! Never tempt me with your vanities! What you offer me is evil. Drink the poison yourself!”

At the very top, you will often find the word PAX, meaning “Peace,” the timeless motto of the Benedictine order. By wearing this St. Benedict Wooden Crucifix Necklace, you are not just wearing a historical emblem; you are arming yourself with the prayers of the Church, invoking the intercession of one of its most powerful saints, and placing yourself under the protection of the Holy Cross. It serves as a constant, silent prayer, guarding your heart, mind, and soul from temptation and harm.

The Ultimate Symbol of Love: Meditating on the Holy Crucifix

While the St. Benedict Medal offers protection, the crucifix itself calls us to contemplation of the greatest love story ever told: the passion, death, and resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ. A simple cross reminds us of His victory, but the crucifix, bearing the corpus (the body of Christ), confronts us with the profound reality of His sacrifice. It is the central image of our Catholic faith.

This Wooden St. Benedict Crucifix Pendant on Cord Necklace is designed to draw you into this mystery. The natural grain of the 8 cm wood cross provides a humble, earthy foundation, reminding us of the wood of the true cross and of Christ’s own humanity. It feels warm and organic to the touch, a grounding presence in your hands during prayer. Upon this wooden frame rests the finely detailed metal corpus. The artists have taken great care to render the image of our crucified Lord with reverence and pathos—not to glorify suffering, but to glorify the immensity of the love that endured it for our sake.

To wear a crucifix is to make a bold and beautiful statement in a world that often rejects the notion of sacrificial love. It says: “I belong to Christ. My hope is in the salvation He won for me on this cross.” It is a potent tool for evangelization, often opening doors for conversations about faith. More importantly, it is a personal reminder for your own heart. In moments of trial, you can grasp it and remember that you are not alone; Jesus has endured the ultimate suffering and understands yours.

In moments of temptation, it reminds you of the price of sin and the path to freedom. In moments of joy, it reminds you of the source of all goodness and the reason for your gratitude. This piece of Catholic Devotional Jewelry is not just an object; it is a focal point for your daily prayer and a constant invitation to a deeper relationship with Jesus.

Italian Artistry and Timeless Tradition: The “Croci da Collo”

Santa Gloria is deeply committed to preserving the rich heritage of Italian religious craftsmanship. This crucifix is a perfect embodiment of that commitment. The “Croci da Collo” tradition is one of creating devotional crosses that are meant to be worn daily, becoming a part of the believer’s life. They are not overly ornate or ostentatious, but are crafted with a focus on durable materials, meaningful symbolism, and wearable comfort.

Our Italian “Croci da Collo” Style Wooden Crucifix with St. Benedict Medal measures a perfect 8 cm (approx. 3.15 inches). This size is substantial enough to feel its presence and appreciate its detail, yet modest enough for comfortable, everyday wear under or over clothing. It is a size that suits both men and women, making it a universally cherished item of faith.

The crucifix is suspended on a strong, simple cord. This is intentional. The cord is humble, durable, and fully adjustable, ensuring a perfect fit for any wearer. It speaks of a faith that is grounded, practical, and unpretentious. The combination of the smooth, polished wood and the cool, detailed metal creates a beautiful tactile and visual contrast.

This isn’t a mass-produced item from a factory line; it is a piece of art born from a legacy of faith. When you hold it, you can feel the care and prayer that went into its creation, a tradition passed down through generations of Roman artisans who consider their work a vocation. This is the Santa Gloria promise: authentic, high-quality, handcrafted religious items that are worthy of their sacred purpose.

A Gift of Faith, A Legacy of Protection

Who is this beautiful St. Benedict Crucifix Necklace for? Its appeal is as wide as the universal Church itself.

• For the Devout Catholic Man or Woman: It is an essential tool for the spiritual life. It is a daily shield of protection and a constant reminder to carry one’s own cross in imitation of Christ. It is a powerful aid for prayer, focus, and resisting the temptations of the modern world.
• For Students and Young Adults: In a world of relativism and shifting values, this necklace is an anchor. It is a declaration of identity in Christ and a source of strength and protection as they navigate the challenges of school, work, and life. It makes a particularly meaningful gift for Confirmation, graduation, or a birthday.
• For Those in Need of Strength or Healing: If you or a loved one is facing a difficult illness, a personal struggle, a spiritual battle, or a period of uncertainty, this crucifix is a profound source of comfort. It is a reminder of God’s power over all evil and His unending love, offering peace and fortitude in times of trial.
• As a Gift for Sacramental Milestones: Celebrate the moments of grace in the lives of your loved ones. This necklace is an ideal and cherished gift for those entering the Church through RCIA, for parents on the occasion of their child’s Baptism, for First Communicants, or for a newly ordained priest or consecrated religious.
• For Anyone Seeking a Deeper Connection to Their Faith: Perhaps you are just beginning to explore the depths of Catholic tradition. This necklace is a perfect starting point. It connects you to the history of the saints, the power of prayer, and the central mystery of our faith.

Blessing and Care for Your Sacred Necklace

To fully unlock the spiritual graces associated with this crucifix, we strongly encourage you to have it blessed by a Catholic priest. As a sacramental, the blessing sets it apart as a holy object dedicated to God’s service. The priest’s prayer of blessing endows it with the spiritual benefits promised by the Church, making it a more potent instrument of grace and protection in your life.

To care for your 8 cm Wood Cross Pendant with Medal, we recommend simple, loving attention. The materials are chosen for their durability, but it is a sacred object and should be treated with reverence.

• Avoid wearing it while swimming or showering, as prolonged exposure to water can damage the wood over time.
• Keep it free from harsh chemicals, lotions, and perfumes.
• To clean, simply wipe it gently with a soft, dry cloth.

By caring for the physical object, you honor its spiritual purpose. Let it become a treasured heirloom, a testament to your faith that can be passed down through generations.

Embrace Your Faith: A Legacy from Rome to Your Heart

The St. Benedict Wooden Crucifix Necklace from Santa Gloria is more than just a product. It is an invitation. It is an invitation to live your faith with courage, to arm yourself for spiritual battle with the prayers of the Church, and to rest in the peace and protection offered by the Cross of Christ. It is a piece of Rome, a piece of Italian tradition, and a piece of Catholic heritage delivered to your door.

Wear it as a sign of your hope in the resurrection. Hold it in your hands as you pray for strength and guidance. Gift it to someone you love as a tangible expression of your wish for their spiritual well-being. Let this Croci da Collo be a constant companion, resting near your heart and reminding you of the eternal truth: through the Holy Cross, and with the intercession of St. Benedict, you are never alone. Add this powerful and beautiful piece of devotional jewelry to your life today.