During the celebration of the Feast of Saint Francis Borgia last weekend we presented three relics: Saint Francis Borgia, Saint Ivonis, and Saint Anthony of Padua.
I want to thank Father Buehler for obtaining for us the relic of Saint Francis Borgia from Rome. He also prepared the whole ceremony which we used last Sunday. I want thank Rich Meyer who made the cabinet which is now called the Reliquary. I hope that you realize what a special honor for us to have these relics. The relics of Saint Ivonis and Saint Anthony we have had for some time, but they are now displayed for all to see.
To possess the relics of a saint is a great privilege. Through their lives, God has blessed humanity in many beautiful ways; and through their relics God continues to offer us His grace and encouragement. And so with great gratitude, we welcome and enthrone the relics of these saints in our parish church.
Saint Francis Borgia
Born to Spanish nobility in 1510, Francis was aware of the unholy past of the Borgia family. His name and great abilities made him a rising star, soon finding himself in the court of the Emperor Charles V. Position, marriage, and children soon followed. However, upon the death of the Empress Isabella, Francis began to be shaken by the fleeting nature of earthly position and possessions.
His career took an unexpected turn, and he found himself back at home, where he invested himself in the community, founding a university, inviting the Jesuits, and earning a Doctorate in Theology. Tragically, his wife died in 1546, and after he had fulfilled his duties to raise his children and provide for his estates, he gave up his possessions, sought out Saint Ignatius of Loyola, and joined the Jesuits.
Though preferring to spend his time in prayer, Francis was often pressed into preaching, renewing faith and winning many people back to Christ. Using his name, previous influence, and great capacity for initiative, he greatly organized and expanded the missionary work of the Jesuits in foreign lands, worked to reconcile various European rulers, and inspired popes in their work for renewal in the Catholic Church. He eventually became the Third Superior General of the Society of Jesus.
Though known for personal austerity and penance, when he was present to others he showed great goodness, being both gentle and firm, winning souls to Christ by his inspired words and holy example.
I will share information next weekend about Saint Ivonis and Saint Anthony of Padua.
Thank you for all the sacrifices that you make to aid us in “Fulfilling the Mission of Jesus.”