You’ve seen the symbol many times on various religious objects: the delicate capitals of M and A intertwining.
Sometimes those letters are called the Marian Monogram, but they aren’t a monogram properly speaking—they don’t represent the initials of Mary’s names. They actually stand for the Latin phrase Auspice Maria, meaning “Under the protection of Mary.”
Doesn’t that phrase imitate the Blessed Mother’s own words concerning herself?
“Am I not here, I who am your Mother? Are you not under my shadow and protection?”
The phrase reminds us that Mary—the Mother of God—is also our mother.
From the cross, Our Lord generously bestowed His Mother on us, and in turn, entrusted us to His Mother. He never leaves us without help; in His loving mercy, He always gives us what we need when we need it. When we go astray, He always points to a path that will lead us back to Him. Often, that path back to Him is the same way that He came to us: through His Mother.
Mary took on her role as our mother wholeheartedly. Like the perfect mother she is, she never stops caring for us, listening to us, comforting us, and interceding for us. She’s watching out for us. She’s protecting us. She loves to hear us call upon her name and ask for her help.
Don’t forget that you’re always under her protection! Remind yourself—and others—of this wonderfully comforting fact with the subtle and sweet Sterling Silver Auspice Maria Necklace. Petite and delicate, the intertwining A-M symbol suspends from a durable silver chain. Available today at The Catholic Company!
