Who Cares for the Body of Saint Benedict?

A History of the Relics of Saint Benedict

The body of Saint Benedict of Nursia has been venerated by Christians for centuries. After his death in 547 AD, his body was buried in the monastery of Monte Cassino, which he had founded. In the 6th century, Pope Gregory the Great wrote a biography of Benedict that included an account of his miracles. Gregory’s biography helped to spread Benedict’s fame throughout Europe, and his body became a popular pilgrimage destination.

In the 9th century, the monastery of Monte Cassino was raided by Muslim pirates. The monks were forced to flee, and they took Benedict’s body with them. They eventually settled in the abbey of Fleury in France, where Benedict’s body was kept for over 200 years. In the 12th century, the monks of Fleury returned Benedict’s body to Monte Cassino, where it has remained ever since.

The Current Status of Benedict’s Relics

Today, Benedict’s body is kept in a marble sarcophagus in the crypt of the basilica of Monte Cassino. The sarcophagus is decorated with reliefs that depict scenes from Benedict’s life. The body is clothed in a white robe and is surrounded by candles and flowers. Pilgrims from all over the world come to Monte Cassino to venerate Benedict’s body. They pray for his intercession and ask for his help in their lives.

The Importance of Benedict’s Relics

The relics of Saint Benedict are a powerful reminder of his life and teachings. They are a symbol of his holiness and his power to intercede with God. Benedict’s relics are also a source of inspiration and comfort for Christians today. They remind us that we are all called to follow Christ and to live a life of holiness.

Conclusion

The body of Saint Benedict is a precious treasure. It is a reminder of his life and teachings, and it is a source of inspiration and comfort for Christians today. The monks of Monte Cassino are the guardians of Benedict’s body, and they are responsible for ensuring that it is properly cared for and venerated. They are also responsible for sharing Benedict’s message with the world.