The Relic
The relics of Don Bosco have been recomposed from the urn that contained
his remains since 1929 when the body was exhumed for his beatification
and canonization. The bones and tissues of the right hand and arm have
been taken and placed within a wax replica of St. John Bosco’s body,
which in turn is enclosed in a large urn.
The urn was constructed specially for this pilgrimage. It is composed of
a large glass box in which the wax replica is placed, and easily viewed.
The box is mounted atop a large wood and metal cart. Among the urn’s
decorations are the words, “Da mihi animas, ceatera tolle,” which
translates to, “Give me souls, take away the rest,” one of Don Bosco’s
many quotes that guided his ministry from its earliest stages through
today. Images of young faces also surround the urn, as well as maps
showing where the Salesian Family is present today. Finally, the years
1815 and 2015 are placed near the base, serving as a reminder of the
purpose of this Relic Pilgrimage: in 2015, the Salesian Family, and the
Church as a whole, will celebrate the 200th Anniversary of Don Bosco’s
birth in 1815.
More information at:
http://donboscoamongus.mypov.in/the-relic/
- B