RELIQUARY, 3 FRANCISCAN SAINTS

Rare reliquary in bronze with a glass facade, containing the relics of Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Pascal Baylon and John Joseph of the Cross The relics are fixed on a background of blue fabric decorated with paperolle threads, they are identified in Latin on labels as :

S.Franc.Ass .: Saint Francis of Assisi
S.Pasch Bayl. : Saint Pascal Baylon
B.Jo.Jos.a Cru.: Blessed John Joseph of the Cross

Good used condition with its original glass.

Not opened.

Ecclesiastical seal present and threads in place.

PERIOD : End of the 18th century
DIMENSIONS : 4 cm X 3.5 cm
SIZE : 1.6" X 1.4"

Saint Francis of Assisi (1181-1226) was an Italian monk and founder of the Franciscan Order . Born into a wealthy family, he renounced his wealth to embrace a life of poverty and prayer. Deeply attached to nature, he considered all living beings as his brothers and sisters, advocating love and humility. His famous Canticle of the Creatures celebrates the beauty of the world and the praise of God. He received the stigmata in 1224, a sign of his deep union with Christ. Beatified shortly after his death, he was proclaimed a saint in 1228. He remains an emblematic figure of Christian spirituality and ecology.

Saint Pascal Baylon (1540-1592) was a Spanish Franciscan friar, known for his great humility and his deep devotion to the Eucharist. Coming from a modest family, he worked as a shepherd before entering the Franciscan Order. Despite his lack of education, he became a spiritual advisor sought after for his wisdom. He spent long hours in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, developing a profound Eucharistic mysticism. He is also renowned for his miracles and his love for the poor. Canonized in 1690, he is today the patron saint of Eucharistic congresses and cooks. His example still inspires the faithful with its simplicity and ardent faith.

Blessed John Joseph of the Cross (1654-1739) was an Italian Franciscan priest, known for his great austerity and his profound life of prayer. Born in Ischia, he entered the Discalced Franciscans at a very young age and distinguished himself by his obedience and humility. Ordained a priest, he held several positions within his order, while leading a life of great penance. He received mystical graces and performed many miracles during his lifetime. His love for God and his neighbor made him a prominent figure in Franciscan spirituality. Beatified in 1789, he remains a model of asceticism and devotion. His intercession is particularly invoked for inner peace and spiritual perseverance.