The highly revered relic known as the “Precious Blood of Our Lord Jesus” will make its first appearance in Rome from November 17 to 25, 2025. This significant event coincides with the upcoming Jubilee Year, attracting great attention from the faithful.
Significance of the Relic
According to tradition, the relic holds the blood collected by the centurion Longinus from the side of Jesus after his crucifixion. This marks the first time the relic leaves the Basilica of Sant’Andrea in Mantova, where it has been housed for centuries. Its arrival in Rome represents a unique opportunity for prayer, reflection, and renewal of faith centered around the Passion of Christ.
Arrival and Ceremonies
The relic will be officially welcomed on November 17 at 4:30 PM with a solemn ceremony led by Monsignor Edoardo Cerrato, the former Bishop of Ivrea. The celebrations will continue through the following week with a series of liturgical events.
Schedule of Key Events
- November 20: At 6 PM, Monsignor Andrea Ripa will preside over a solemn Eucharistic celebration.
- November 21: At 4 PM, a procession will carry the relic to St. Peter’s Basilica, traversing the Holy Door. This will culminate in a Pontifical Mass led by Monsignor Flavio Pace, Secretary of the Dicastery for the Promotion of Christian Unity.
- November 22: Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas will lead a solemn Pontifical Mass at 6 PM at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.
- November 23-24: Monsignor Edoardo Cerrato will celebrate Mass at 6 PM on both days.
- November 25: The concluding highlight of the program, a solemn Pontifical Mass, will be presided over by Cardinal Mario Grech, Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops.
Special Features and Offerings
During this extraordinary event, the lance of the centurion Longinus, preserved for centuries at the Vatican Basilica, will also be offered for veneration. This initiative, organized by the San Salvatore in Lauro Shrine, aims to provide the faithful with a time of grace and contemplation and reinforces the universal significance of Christ’s Sacrifice as a symbol of love, salvation, and unity among all believers.
