The Canadian Press
MONTREAL–A Catholic group says it is bringing the right forearm of a 16th-century Jesuit missionary on a cross-Canada tour to celebrate the country’s 150th birthday.
A spokesperson for Catholic Christian Outreach said the relic of Saint-Francois-Xavier will visit 14 Canadian cities during a month-long tour that kicks off Jan. 3.
Debra Proulx noted the saint’s right forearm is considered an important religious relic that rarely is allowed to leave Rome.
She said the relic is well-preserved since it never fully decomposed after the Spanish-born saint died in 1552.
She added while the arm may be a curiosity for some Canadians, venerating the physical remains of saints is an important aspect of some Christians’ faith.
The tour’s organizers, which include the Ottawa archdiocese and the Jesuits of Canada, said they expect more than 100,000 visitors once the tour begins in Quebec City.
