Relics of Pius IX Still Missing

Friday, December 9, 2011

The Italian website MESSAINLATINO reports that the relics of Blessed Pius IX are still missing after reports they were no longer on display for veneration by pilgrims who went to the Basilica of Saint Lawrence Outside the Walls in Rome.

Since 1881, the mortal remains of Blessed Pope Pius IX (who proclaimed the dogma of the Immaculate Conception) rested in the Basilica of Saint Lawrence.

After his beatification in 2000, the body (miraculously incorrupt), was placed in a crystal case, under an specially built altar and exposed for the veneration of the faithful.

Since the last report, however, the Friars Minor Capuchin, who take care of the Basilica, have replied that the removal was due to a flood in October 2011.

However, the shrine has no sign explaining what happened so that pilgrims might know why they can no longer venerate the relics.

Some say the relics were damaged by the waters. The latest explanation is that the body has been taken for examination in light of a future canonization and will return on his feast on February 7. If the latter is the reason, then why was the flood given as an explanation for the disappearance?