The Pectoral Cross of Pope Leo XIV: A Symbol of Episcopal Holiness
On the historic day of his election, Pope Leo XIV adorned himself with a pectoral cross that held relics of saints deeply connected to the Augustinian order – Saint Augustine and Saint Monica.
Written by Tiziana Campisi
The significance of the pectoral cross worn by Pope Leo XIV on the 8th of May goes beyond mere ornamentation. It carries within it fragments of bone from saints whose lives exemplify fidelity, reform, service, and martyrdom within the Augustinian tradition.
At the heart of the cross lies a relic of Saint Augustine, the revered Church Father who emphasized introspection as a means to encounter God and comprehend His teachings. This message of faith and reason, meant to be shared with others, is embodied in the cross that Pope Leo XIV proudly displayed as he made his first public appearance from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Accompanying the relic of Saint Augustine are fragments from four other saints – Monica, Thomas of Villanova, Blessed Anselmo Polanco, and Venerable Giuseppe Bartolomeo Menochio.
A Gift from the Augustinian General Curia
The selection of these relics was a thoughtful gesture by Fr. Josef Sciberras, Postulator General of the Augustinian Order, as a gift from the General Curia to Cardinal Robert Prevost on his elevation to cardinalship. Each relic symbolizes a unique aspect of sanctity revered within the Augustinian community.
Fr. Sciberras expressed his joy at the election of the new Pope, recalling the emotional moment when Cardinal Prevost received the cross during a ceremony at the International College of Saint Monica. The cross held relics of both Saint Augustine and his mother, Monica, close to his heart.
“The day before the conclave,” Fr. Sciberras shared, “I sent him a message, encouraging him to wear the cross we had given him, for the protection of Saints Augustine and Monica. I don’t know whether it was because of my message or not, but when I saw he was wearing it when taking the oath – and again when he stepped out onto the balcony of the basilica – I was deeply moved.”
Augustine and Monica
The relic of Saint Augustine serves as a reminder of the Order of Saint Augustine’s enduring commitment to community life, apostolic service, spirituality, and study. Saint Monica’s relic symbolizes the unbreakable bond between mother and son, exemplifying strength and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Pope Francis held a special devotion to Saint Monica, often visiting her tomb at the Basilica of Saint Augustine in Rome. Her life and her son’s journey to conversion remain foundational to Augustinian spirituality.
Thomas of Villanova
Saint Thomas of Villanova, known for his reformative efforts in religious life and unwavering dedication to the poor, embodied the pastoral ethos of “smelling of his sheep,” as championed by Pope Francis. His legacy as a shepherd and theologian continues to inspire.
Anselmo Polanco
Blessed Anselmo Polanco, a martyr of the Spanish Civil War, stood firm in his commitment to his people and faith till the very end. His sacrifice for his flock remains a testament to unwavering faith and loyalty.
Bartolomeo Menochio
Venerable Giuseppe Bartolomeo Menochio, a devoted bishop, exemplified steadfast devotion to the Church and the people of Rome during a tumultuous period. His refusal to swear allegiance to Napoleon underscores his dedication to serving the Roman community.
A Visible Sign of Faith and Pastoral Mission
The relics enshrined within the pectoral cross symbolize virtues integral to the Augustinian tradition – fidelity, reform, service, and martyrdom. This cross, as Fr. Sciberras explains, is not merely a decorative object but a visible emblem of faith and pastoral commitment, guiding the ministry of the new Pope.
Images courtesy of Vatican News
