Relics on display in the Reliquary at Bruté

What is a relic? According to Merriam-Webster there are multiple definitions. The first definition is an object esteemed and venerated because of association with a saint or martyr. We as the Catholic church are unique as one of the only churches that hold such high esteem for relics. Since we hold such high esteem for relics, they are to be handled with care. Our relics are often placed in a reliquary, which is a house for the relic that holds and protects it. Oftentimes you will see reliquaries that are shaped like a monstrance.

There are different classifications for relics in the Catholic church. A first-class relic is a body part of a saint, such as bone, blood, or flesh. These relics are often placed in altars at their dedication. Second class relics are possessions that a saint owned such as a piece of St. Padre Pio’s habit or even his snuff box. Third-class relics are objects that have been touched to a first- or second-class relic or that a saint has touched him or herself. These tend to be the most common relics we find in the church today. An example of a third-class relic could be a holy card that touched the heart of St. John Vianney. 

We here at Bruté are blessed to be gifted with many relics. We currently have 32 relics at the seminary, and many are on display in our reliquary. Our relics include a piece of the true cross and thorns from crown of thorns as well as relics from St. Therese of the Child Jesus, St. Junipero Serra, and St Elizabeth Ann Seton

It is important to understand the role that relics play in our church. We do not worship the relic itself. Instead, the veneration of the relics reflects the belief that the saints in Heaven will intercede for us on earth. Relics do not have their own power but remind us of the holiness of the saint they represent.

In my hometown of Louisville there is a rich history of Catholicism since we were the first diocese west of the Allegheny Mountains. One of the oldest churches in our diocese is called St. Martin of Tours. This church is famous for having the unique responsibility of housing the full body relics of St. Magnus and St. Bonosa. Learning how to venerate relics in my home diocese has increased my connection to the Communion of Saints and enhanced my understanding of how a saint’s faith can lead me closer to Jesus. 

Relics play an interesting and important role in the church, and we are lucky to have so many here at Bishop Simon Bruté College Seminary.

Recently, the Bruté Seminarians traveled to Washington D.C. to join others from around the country in the annual March for Life.