10 Sicilian words that you need to know - Sicilian Food CultureWhen my mom & Nanna were suddenly startled by something they would gasp & say "Bedda Matti !" Not sure on the spelling, but I'm pretty sure the meaning was "Blessed Mother!" , as this would be a time for prayer.
I saw in another forum saying that Bedda Matri was also used as a blessing in the response to Sabbennedica. In this case I think the Bedda is not taken 100% litterally and it does take on a form of "blessed" or something to that effect. So, I would be inclined to think that you are both correct.10 Sicilian words that you need to know - Sicilian Food Culture
Literally, Bedda Matri is “beautiful mother” but the way that Sicilians are using it is the exact same way as “Oh my god” in the English language: depending on your tone, you can use it if you’re scared or if you’re surprised!