The Jubilee of 2025 is bringing with it events that at other times would have been impossible… unique events that make this Holy Year a year one for the history books.
For example, for the first time, the Most Precious Blood of Christ has arrived from the city of Mantua to the Eternal City.
The San Salvatore in Lauro Sanctuary is the church where the Most Precious Blood of Christ will be held until it's returned to the Church of Saint Andrew in the Lombardy region.
What is the true story of this relic? Let me introduce its protagonist, alongside Christ, the centurion Longinus.
Fr. PIETRO BONGIOVANNI
It begins precisely at the moment when Jesus is pierced by the spear of the Roman soldier, Longinus. This is the name attributed to this man. After performing this act, the soldier, impressed by what he has seen, converts. And he says: “This is the Son of God.”
So what does he do? He collects the soil around the cross and the blood that had soaked it… and keeps it with him.
Back in Rome, he is rewarded with a plot of land in a swampy area. This is where Mantua is located today, which did not yet exist.
Later, Emperor Charlemagne, in the year 700, invited Pope Leo III, who certified the relic as genuine. Since then, thousands upon thousands of pilgrims have venerated it.
Next Friday, another unique event will take place: the Most Precious Blood of Christ will be carried in procession to St. Peter’s in the Vatican and pass through the Holy Door.
Fr. PIETRO BONGIOVANNI
This relic is officially on pilgrimage to Rome for the first time in its millennial history. And that is why it is an occasion that also moves many people, who have responded to this great call of love and devotion to Lord Jesus.
Additionally, the relic on display is accompanied by two others: a thorn from the crown of Jesus and a small piece of the wood on which He was crucified.
For the grand finale, Cardinal Rolandas Macrikas, Archpriest of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, will celebrate a Mass on Saturday the 22nd.
A unique opportunity to witness, through these relics at the San Salvatore in Lauro Sanctuary, the Passion of Christ during this Holy Year.
Trans. CRT
