1. St. John the Baptist: This is the most common association with a "St John medal." He is the patron saint of:
* Baptism: The medal might symbolize faith, purification, and spiritual rebirth.
* Preachers: The medal could represent the importance of spreading the gospel and promoting spiritual awareness.
* Protection from evil: St. John the Baptist is often seen as a protector against dark forces, making the medal a symbol of safety and warding off negativity.
2. St. John the Evangelist: He is the patron saint of:
* Writers and artists: The medal could represent creativity, inspiration, and the power of communication.
* Love and compassion: St. John the Evangelist is associated with love, forgiveness, and the importance of human connection.
* Healing: He is often depicted with a chalice, which is a symbol of healing and restoration.
3. Other St. Johns:
* St. John Chrysostom: A Doctor of the Church, he was renowned for his eloquent preaching. A medal could symbolize eloquence, intellectual prowess, and powerful communication.
* St. John the Apostle: One of Jesus' closest disciples, he is associated with faith, loyalty, and spiritual growth.
4. The Order of St. John: This is a charitable organization with a long history. A medal associated with the Order might signify service, compassion, and dedication to helping others.
To understand the meaning of a specific St John medal, it's important to consider the context and the specific saint it depicts. Look for these clues:
* Image on the medal: Does it feature a specific saint? What symbols are present (e.g., chalice, lamb, book)?
* Inscription: Does it mention a specific saint or organization?
* Historical background: Where did you find the medal? What is the history of the medal's origin?
Once you've considered these factors, you'll have a better understanding of the meaning behind the St John medal.