Catholics venerate relics

The veneration of relics is seeing increased interest in the United States as various saintly relics travel across the country and attract large numbers of the faithful. While the practice has declined over the last 50 years, OSV News reports that it appears to be returning to prominence.

The tradition can be misunderstood as offering worship to a saint or an object rather than to God. However, the Church teaches that God is the only subject of worship. Honoring saints and their relics is a distinct practice from worship.

One way to understand this tradition is through the context of family. Just as people keep photographs or cherished belongings of deceased relatives to honor their memory, Catholics honor the saints through their relics. This practice is a significant part of the Church's tradition, particularly noted around the solemnity of All Saints on Nov. 1.