The pectoral cross worn by the Pope isn’t just a pretty piece of jewelry. It’s a symbol of faith, authority, and a commitment to shepherding the Church.
But the cross worn by Pope Leo XIV is particularly special. It contains relics—sacred objects associated with saints—of some of the most important figures in the Catholic Church. These include Saints Augustine, Monica, Thomas of Villanova, Blessed Anselmo Polanco, and Venerable Giuseppe Bartolomeo Menochio.
Let’s take a closer look at the symbolism and meaning behind the relics contained within this particular cross of the Pope.
The Augustinian Connection: Saints Augustine and Monica
The Augustinian Order plays a key role in the history of the Papal pectoral cross.
Saint Augustine: Foundation of the Order
Saint Augustine is the inspiration for the Augustinian Order. His relic emphasizes the Order’s values of community, service, spirituality, and study. Augustine’s writings have profoundly shaped Christian theology and philosophy.
Saint Monica: The Power of Maternal Influence
Saint Monica was Augustine’s mother, and she had a huge influence on his conversion to Christianity. Saint Monica’s relic highlights the deep bond between mother and son, and her impact on Augustine’s spiritual journey. Monica is often seen as a model of unwavering faith and perseverance in prayer.
Saints of Service and Reform: Thomas of Villanova and Anselmo Polanco
Many popes throughout history have chosen a pectoral cross that honors a particular saint, often one who represents service to the poor or a commitment to reform.
Saint Thomas of Villanova: Shepherd of the Poor
Saint Thomas of Villanova, who lived from 1488 to 1555, was known as a reformer and a shepherd, one who cared deeply for the poor and supported missionary work. He believed in education and founded a seminary in 1550.
Blessed Anselmo Polanco: Martyrdom and Faith
Blessed Anselmo Polanco, who lived from 1881 to 1939, was martyred during the Spanish Civil War. His death represents his fidelity to the Catholic faith, even during times of persecution.
Fidelity in the Face of Adversity: Venerable Giuseppe Bartolomeo Menochio
Not every cross is physical. Sometimes, the cross is a burden of conscience.
Consider the story of Venerable Giuseppe Bartolomeo Menochio, a bishop during Napoleon’s reign. When Napoleon demanded Menochio swear allegiance to him, Menochio refused. His refusal wasn’t a political statement, but a testament to his unwavering loyalty to the Church.
Menochio’s actions demonstrated a profound fidelity to the Church’s authority, even in the face of immense political pressure. His heroic virtues were later recognized by Pope John Paul II in 1991, a testament to the enduring power of faith and principle.
The cross: Presentation and meaning
The cross was given to Cardinal Robert Prevost during a ceremony at the refectory of the International College of Saint Monica. Fr. Sciberras, who presented the cross, encouraged Cardinal Prevost to wear it for protection when he took his oath and appeared on the basilica balcony for the first time.
The cross is a visible symbol of faith and commitment to shepherding the flock. It embodies the virtues represented by the relics it contains. It’s a constant reminder of the Cardinal’s responsibilities and a sign of his dedication to serving the Church.
Closing Thoughts
The relics enclosed within Pope Leo XIII’s pectoral cross aren’t just precious objects. They represent key aspects of holiness according to the Augustinian tradition: fidelity, reform, service, and martyrdom.
In this way, the cross embodies the values and legacy of the Augustinian Order, reminding us of the Augustinians’ devotion to faith, their commitment to serving others, and their enduring faithfulness to the Church. The Cross of the Pope is a powerful symbol of Augustinian values.