Last Tuesday, 14th July, the memorial of Saint Bonaventure, bishop and doctor of the Church, the Diocesan Seminary of the Canary Islands experienced a moment of profound significance. On that day, it received a relic of Saint Anthony Mary Claret, co-patron of the Diocese of the Canary Islands and one of the most influential figures in the history of our Seminary.
The relic was presented by Fr Santiago Cerrato Cáceres, CMF, Superior of the Claretian Missionaries’ community in Gran Canaria and parish priest of the Heart of Mary, during a simple ceremony held at the Seminary. With this gesture, the Congregation of the Missionary Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary sought to strengthen the historical and spiritual bonds linking Saint Anthony Mary Claret to our diocesan Church.
A Point of Reference for the Seminary and the Diocese
Saint Anthony Mary Claret holds a prominent place in the history of the Church in the Canary Islands. Besides being co-patron of the Diocese of the Canary Islands, he left a deep mark on the life of our particular Church. His missionary ardour, his love for the Word of God, and his dedication to the formation of future priests continue to serve as an example for the entire diocesan community.
Furthermore, his figure remains closely tied to the history of the Diocesan Seminary of the Canary Islands. Therefore, the presence of this relic constitutes a visible sign of communion with this great saint. It also invites seminarians, formators, and the faithful alike to follow his example of fidelity to the Gospel, apostolic zeal, and deep devotion to the Most Holy Virgin Mary.
An Authentic First-Class Relic
The relic received is a first-class relic (ex corpore). That is to say, it is a small fragment of the body of Saint Anthony Mary Claret.
In addition, the relic is accompanied by the corresponding certificate of authenticity, issued on 14th January 2023 by Fr Christophorus Gierat, CMF, Postulator General for the Causes of Saints of the Congregation of the Missionary Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
This document certifies the authenticity of the relic. It also accredits that it has been preserved and sealed in accordance with the norms established by the Church for the veneration of relics.
An Inspiration for Spiritual Life
With gratitude to the Lord, the Diocesan Seminary of the Canary Islands welcomes this precious gift as an aid to the spiritual life of the entire formation community. The presence of this relic will allow seminarians and formators to entrust their vocational journey to the intercession of a saint who lived the proclamation of the Gospel with true passion.
In this way, the relic of Saint Anthony Mary Claret recalls the universal call to holiness. At the same time, it encourages us to live the priestly ministry with dedication, humility, and an authentic missionary spirit, following the example of the holy founder of the Claretian Missionaries.
Finally, we express our gratitude to Fr Santiago Cerrato Cáceres, CMF, and to the entire community of Claretian Missionaries for this meaningful gesture of closeness and communion with our Seminary. May the intercession of Saint Anthony Mary Claret continue to sustain vocations in our diocese. Likewise, may it accompany the path of those preparing to serve the People of God and strengthen their fidelity to the Lord’s call.
Source: Website of the Seminary of the Canary Islands
