Many people don’t know that Saint Anthony of Padua was not really from Padua, Italy. He was actually from Portugal. He is called Saint Anthony “of Padua” because his body was buried in Padua.
When St. Anthony died on June 13, 1231, his body was buried in the little Franciscan Church of St. Mary in Padua. By 1263 (only 32 years after his death!), a great basilica had been constructed so that his relics could be placed below the high altar.
The incorrupt tongue of Saint Anthony of Padua is a revered relic housed in the Basilica of Saint Anthony in Padua, Italy. Here are the key details specifically related to his tongue:
First Exhumation (1263):
- During the initial exhumation of Saint Anthony's tomb in 1263, his body was found to have decomposed, but his tongue remained fresh and incorrupt.
- The preservation of his tongue was seen as a miraculous sign, given Saint Anthony's reputation as a gifted preacher and orator.
Second Exhumation (1981):
- In 1981, a team of scientists and clergy conducted a second examination of Saint Anthony's remains.
- The examination confirmed the presence of the incorrupt tongue, along with other skeletal remains.
Display and Veneration
Reliquary:
- The incorrupt tongue of Saint Anthony is housed in a special reliquary within the Basilica of Saint Anthony.
- The reliquary is prominently displayed for veneration by pilgrims and visitors to the basilica.
Veneration:
- Pilgrims from around the world visit the basilica to pray before the relic of Saint Anthony's incorrupt tongue.
- The tongue is venerated as a tangible reminder of Saint Anthony's eloquence and his special connection to preaching and teaching the Gospel.
Symbolism and Devotion
Symbol of Preaching:
- Saint Anthony's incorrupt tongue is symbolic of his gift of preaching and his ability to communicate the message of the Gospel effectively.
- It serves as a tangible reminder of Saint Anthony's role as a preacher and teacher in the Christian tradition.
Devotional Focus:
- Devotion to Saint Anthony often includes prayers for guidance in speech and communication, as well as requests for assistance in preaching the Gospel and spreading the faith.
- Many faithful believe that praying before the relic of Saint Anthony's tongue can help them with articulating their thoughts and expressing themselves clearly.
In summary, the incorrupt tongue of Saint Anthony of Padua is a revered relic that symbolizes his gift of preaching and his dedication to communicating the Gospel message. It is venerated by pilgrims and devotees as a tangible connection to the saint and a source of inspiration for effective communication in the Christian faith.
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