Ethan Walker
Obtaining a Catholic relic can be a challenging and lengthy process. Relics are classified into three categories, with first-class relics being physical bodily remains of a saint, such as bones, blood, or hair, and are extremely difficult to obtain for personal ownership. Second-class relics are personal possessions of the saint, and third-class relics are objects touched by the saint or a first/second-class relic. While it is forbidden to sell sacred relics, individuals can apply to the Vatican for a specific relic with permission from their bishop, mainly if it is for a church altar or public purpose. The easiest way to obtain a relic is by transforming a personal possession into a third-class relic through contact with a first or second-class relic, often during events hosted by local churches.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| First-class relic | Physical bodily remains of a saint, such as bones, blood, hair, and flesh |
| Second-class relic | Personal possessions of a saint, such as clothing |
| Third-class relic | Objects touched to a first or second-class relic or touched by a saint |
| Obtaining a first-class relic | Requires a letter of permission from a bishop and is only granted for public use |
| Obtaining a second-class relic | Contact the religious order or shrine of a particular saint |
| Obtaining a third-class relic | Touch a personal possession to a first or second-class relic |
| Cost | No charge for the relic, but there may be a charge for the container and mailing costs |
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What You'll Learn
First-class relics are practically impossible to obtain
Second-class relics are also difficult to come by, unless you are the relative of a saint or obtain one from a religious order. These are personal possessions of the saint, such as clothing. Occasionally, second-class relics can be obtained by contacting the religious order or shrine of a particular saint.
The easiest way to obtain a relic is to create a third-class relic by touching a possession of your own to a first or second-class relic. This can be done at local churches that host traveling relic groups, or by contacting the religious order or shrine of a particular saint. The range of objects that can be used to create a third-class relic is limitless, including jewelry, ornaments, crucifixes, rosary beads, books, photos, prayer cards, and more.
It is important to note that the sale of sacred relics is forbidden by the Catholic Church, and there is often a charge only for the metal container encasing the relic and for mailing costs.
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Second-class relics are difficult to obtain
Second-class relics are possessions that a saint owned, such as clothing, books, or other items. They are difficult to obtain unless you are a relative of the saint or obtain one from a religious order. The Vatican strongly discourages private ownership of first-class relics, which are bodily remains of saints, as it limits the evangelizing effect of the saint's memory. Similarly, second-class relics are also challenging to come by, as they are often in the possession of the Church or museums.
One way to obtain a second-class relic is by contacting the religious order or shrine associated with a particular saint. However, even if they do not provide the relic, they may offer devotional material and information about the saint's life. Another option is to touch a personal possession to a first or second-class relic, thereby making it a third-class relic. Local churches sometimes host travelling relic groups, providing opportunities for individuals to create their own third-class relics.
It is important to note that the buying and selling of relics are prohibited, and any monetary exchange within the Church related to relics is considered simony. While the relic itself may not be sold, there may be charges for the metal container encasing it and mailing costs. Additionally, a letter of permission from a bishop may be required to obtain certain relics.
Obtaining second-class relics can be a complex and challenging process due to their significance and the desire to preserve them within the Church. Those seeking such relics must navigate religious protocols and demonstrate their character and intentions.
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Third-class relics are easier to obtain
Relics are an important part of Catholicism, symbolizing a life lived in the good graces of God. They are divided into three classes, with first-class relics being physical bodily remains, such as bones, blood, and hair, or objects directly associated with Christ's life. Second-class relics are personal possessions, such as clothing, owned or used by saints.
Third-class relics are objects that have come into contact with first or second-class relics, thus gaining a connection to the saint they represent. They are easier to obtain for several reasons. Firstly, private ownership of first-class relics is highly discouraged, and they are usually entrusted to members of Faith Communities or historical organizations rather than individuals. Second-class relics are also challenging to acquire unless you are related to a saint or obtain one from a religious order.
In contrast, third-class relics can be freely purchased from reputable dealers or created by individuals. The easiest way to obtain a third-class relic is by touching a possession of your own to a first or second-class relic, which can be done at local church events that host traveling relic groups. These third-class relics are often worn, carried, or kept in the home for protection and guidance, serving as a tangible connection to the saints and their intercessory power.
While there is debate over the existence of a fourth class of relics, it is generally agreed that third-class relics hold spiritual significance within the Catholic Church. They are seen as a means to strengthen one's faith, inspire devotion, and facilitate a deeper connection with the saint and, ultimately, with God.
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You need permission from a bishop to obtain relics
Obtaining a Catholic relic is a detailed process that requires knowledge of the different classes of relics and the specific procedures for acquisition. One crucial aspect to remember is that you need permission from a bishop to obtain certain relics, especially the highly coveted first-class relics.
First-class relics are considered the most prestigious and significant type of relic. They consist of physical bodily remains or fragments of a saint, such as bones, blood, hair, or flesh. Due to their rarity and importance, obtaining a first-class relic requires explicit permission from a bishop and is often reserved for public veneration rather than private ownership.
To receive permission from a bishop, one must demonstrate their Catholic faith, good character, and sincere intentions for obtaining the relic. It is recommended to include a letter from your priest or bishop verifying your identity and intentions. Additionally, expressing a heartfelt explanation of your connection to the saint associated with the relic can strengthen your request.
The process of obtaining permission from a bishop may vary depending on your location and the specific guidelines of your diocese. It is always advisable to consult with your local church authorities and seek their guidance throughout the process.
While seeking permission from a bishop is a crucial step in obtaining certain relics, it is important to remember that the availability of relics, especially first-class relics, is limited. The Vatican prioritizes preserving these relics in Catholic churches or within the Vatican itself. Therefore, even with the necessary permissions, acquiring a first-class relic may still be challenging.
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Relics are not sold
Relics are physical remains or possessions of saints or venerated persons. They are divided into three classes. First-class relics are physical bodily remains of a saint, such as bones, blood, hair, or flesh. Second-class relics are items that were used or owned by the saint, such as clothing. Third-class relics are objects that have been touched to a first- or second-class relic or touched by the saint themselves.
First-class relics are practically impossible to obtain for private ownership as the Vatican wants to preserve them in Catholic churches or in the Vatican itself. Second-class relics are also difficult to come by unless you are related to a saint or obtain one from a religious order.
The easiest way to obtain a relic is to make a third-class relic by touching a possession of your own to a first- or second-class relic. Many popular items can be used for this purpose, such as jewelry, ornaments, crucifixes, rosary beads, books, photos, prayer cards, and more. Sometimes, local churches host traveling relic groups, where you can bring your own possessions to be touched by relics from various saints.
If you are interested in obtaining a first- or second-class relic, you can apply to the Vatican with a letter of permission from your bishop, but only if the relic will be used for a church altar or other public purpose. You can also try contacting the religious order or shrine of a particular saint, though they may only be able to provide devotional material and information about the saint's life.
It is important to note that relics are not sold. While there may be charges for the metal container encasing the relic and for mailing costs, there is no cost for the relic itself. The church's Code of Canon Law specifically forbids the sale of sacred relics.
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Frequently asked questions
You can apply to the Vatican for a specific relic with a letter of permission from your bishop, but only if the relic will be used for a church altar or other public purpose. Private ownership is highly discouraged.
First-class relics are physical bodily remains of a saint, such as bones, blood, hair, and flesh. Second-class relics are possessions that a saint owned, and third-class relics are objects that have been touched by a saint or a first or second-class relic.
Yes, the most famous relic is the Shroud of Turin, a burial cloth that many believe depicts the face of Jesus Christ. Other well-known relics include the pieces of the cross that Jesus was crucified on and the Crown of Thorns.
First-class relics are difficult to obtain because the Vatican wants to preserve them in Catholic churches or in the Vatican itself.
No, it is forbidden to sell sacred relics. However, there may be a charge for the container encasing the relic and for mailing costs.
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