You’ve likely seen this symbol many times on religious objects: the elegant intertwining of the letters M and A.
Though often referred to as the Marian Monogram, it’s not a monogram in the traditional sense, as it doesn’t represent Mary’s initials. Instead, these letters stand for the Latin phrase *Auspice Maria*, meaning “Under the protection of Mary.”
Doesn’t this phrase echo the Blessed Mother’s own tender words to Juan Diego during her apparition as Our Lady of Guadalupe? :
“Am I not here, I who am your Mother? Are you not under my shadow and protection?”
“Auspice Maria” reminds us that Mary—the Mother of God—is also our mother. From the cross, Jesus lovingly entrusted her to us, and us to her. In His mercy, He never leaves us without aid. When we falter, He gently points us back to the path that leads to Him—and often, that path is the same way He came to us: through His Mother. 
Mary embraces her role as our mother with boundless love. Like the perfect mother she is, she never ceases to care for us, listen to us, comfort us, and intercede on our behalf. She watches over us, protects us, and eagerly listens when we call upon her. Under her maternal care, we are always “Auspice Maria” – under the protection of Mary.
