Relics require great attention, reverence, care and respect
The Institute must be the guardian of the body of the Foundress, a first degree relic which is conserved in the Chapel of the Generalate.
In addition, the Generalate is the custodian of objects which had belonged to Mother Clelia or which she had normally used: rosary, kneeler, crucifix, books, etc. These are conserved mainly in Mother Clelia’s room in Rome and are second degree relics.
For the Beatification, three types of relics were made: “ex-ossibus”, “ex-corpore” and ex-indumentis”:
- Two relics “ex-ossibus” were taken from two finger bones on one of the hands. One was brought to the Beatification Celebration and is now in the Generalate. The other is in the Vatican. These are first-class relics.
- The “ex corpore” relics have ben obtained from human tissue removed from her chest and from Mother’s lest leg. These too are first-class relics.
- The “ex indumentis” relics are taken from clothing worn by Mother Clelia. These are second class relics.
Procedures regarding each type of relic:
- The “ex-indumentis” relics have been prepared on cardboard so that they can be easily kept in a pocket or wallet. They can be given to all those who ask for them or can be offered as gifts.
- The “ex corpore” relics have been prepared in three formats: small monstrances for the Provincialates, Retreat Houses and Homes for the elderly Sisters. A small glass case in the form of a heart: one for each community of the Institute and for some bishops or priests very connected with the Congregation and ask for one; and a small glass case in the shape of a flower for each Sister.
At present, we are giving the “ex corpore” (first class relics) only to priests who request them for the public veneration on the faithful. There must be a written request on letterhead paper of the Parish, signed by the Pastor and stamped with the Parish seal. At the same time, it is necessary to have a letter from the Diocese to which the priest belongs. In the case of religious priests, the letter from the bishop is substituted by a letter of the major superior of the Congregation to which he belongs. These letters must be sent by mail, addressed to:
