San Francisco Displays 800-Year-Old Relic Linked to St. Francis
An 800-year-old relic believed to contain St. Francis of Assisi’s blood is on display in San Francisco until November 28.
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San Francisco is set to host a rare exhibition of an 800-year-old relic believed to contain the blood of St. Francis of Assisi. The artifact, known as the ‘Bandage Relic of the Stigmata of Saint Francis of Assisi,’ is on display at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption until November 28. This exhibit coincides with the 800th anniversary of St. Francis’s death and marks the first time the relic has been displayed outside of Italy.
A Sacred Connection to Church History
The relic is associated with the sacred mountain of La Verna, where St. Francis received the holy stigmata in 1224. This event is considered one of the most profound mystical encounters in the history of the Church. The cathedral’s website describes the bandage as a symbol of St. Francis’s suffering and his deep spiritual connection to Christ.
St. Francis’s Enduring Legacy
Candida Moss, the Edward Cadbury professor of theology at the University of Birmingham, highlighted St. Francis’s enduring popularity, noting his transformation from a knight to a man devoted to the poor and nature. She explained, ‘He starts off just like everyone else. He wanted to be a knight. And then he changes his life. He ministers to the poor. He has all of these stories about him preaching to birds.’ These endearing stories have contributed to his lasting appeal.
A City Named in His Honor
San Francisco was originally founded as a mission in the 1700s, with the Misión San Francisco de Asís established on October 9, 1776. The city was named in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, the founder of the Franciscan Order. The mission was also known as ‘Mission Dolores’ due to its proximity to a nearby creek.
The First Nativity Scene
It is said that St. Francis made the first Nativity Scene in December 1223, just outside of Greccio. This act of devotion is considered a significant moment in Christian history and is celebrated as a testament to his commitment to spreading the message of Christ.
Source: Breitbart
