St Benedict, front

He gave advice to kings and popes and could read peoples' consciences. He had the gift of prophesy and worked miracles. He died on March 21 in 543, but this date almost always falls in Lent, so the Church moved his memorial to July 11.

He was named co-patron of Europe in 1964, and is patron saint of students.

Benedict's life stood for and the things he valued most, especially in the monastic life. Wearing this medal is a ward against Satan and the fallen angels encroaching evil.

It stands for the power of prayer in times of temptation and suffering.