RELICS OF SAINT HIPPOLYTUS AND SAINT EUGENE

Rare bronze reliquary,, a. Inside, two relics are displayed vertically, each surrounded by golden rays symbolizing heavenly glory.

• Oss. S. Eugenii M. (bones of Saint Eugene, martyr)

• Oss. S. Hippoliti M. (bones of Saint Hippolytus, martyr)

Not opened.

Ecclesiastical seal present.

Not opened.

PERIOD : 18th century
DIMENSION : 3.5 cm X 2.5 cm
SIZE : 1.4" X 1"

Saint Hippolytus of Rome († c. 235) was one of the first great Christian theologians, author of numerous biblical commentaries and defender of the faith. A Roman priest, he sometimes opposed the popes of his time but died reconciled with the Church. Arrested under Emperor Maximinus Thrax, he was condemned to forced labor and then martyred for his fidelity to Christ. His cult spread widely, and he is celebrated on August 13 as martyr and Father of the Church.

Saint Eugene martyr is a name borne by several witnesses of the faith of the early centuries, but tradition especially recalls Eugene, companion of Saint Denis. Evangelizer in Gaul in the 3rd century, he was arrested during the Roman persecutions and condemned to death for his fidelity to Christ. His cult quickly developed in Paris and in several regions of France. Venerated as a martyr, he is celebrated on November 15 in the liturgy.