Description
The text describes the different types of relics that are venerated by Christians. First Class Relics are the body or a portion of the body of a saint. Second Class Relics are an item or piece of an item used by the saint while in the body. Third Class Relics are something that has been touched to the body (or to a portion of the body) of a saint. Fourth Class Relics are something that has been touched to a Second Class Relic of a saint.
2.5cm - 3rd Class Relic Medal - St Anthony
Relics of Christian Saints fall into four categories:
First Class Relic is the body or a portion of the body of a Saint; example: bone, flesh, or hair. These are considered so precious that they are rarely entrusted to individuals, but are placed in Faith Communities.
The Second Class Relic is an item or piece of an item used by the Saint while in the body; example: clothing, Bible, Breviary, Mass vestments, and so on. Again, second class Relics are considered so precious that they are rarely entrusted to individuals, but are placed in Faith Communities.
The Third Class Relic is something that has been touched to the body (or to a portion of the body) of a Saint. Generally, the Third Class Relic is a piece of cloth, but it need not be, as long as the item so touched conveys holiness and is touched with the intent that it be a third class Relic. Third class Relics may be given to individuals, and may be sold.
The Fourth Class Relic, somewhat less known, is something that has been touched to a Second Class Relic of a Saint. Generally, the Fourth Class Relic is a piece of cloth, but it need not be, as long as the item so touched conveys holiness and is touched with the intent that it be a fourth class Relic. Again, fourth class Relics may be given to individuals, and may be sold.
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