Since Saturday, hundreds of thousands of believers have been pilgrimaging to the Italian town of Assisi to view the remains of St. Francis of Assisi, who died over 800 years ago. Approximately 400,000 people have registered to participate, driven by a desire to connect with the revered saint through his relics. This surge in interest raises questions about the contemporary relevance and significance of such practices in modern faith.

Oliver Wintzek, a professor of dogmatics and fundamental theology at Mainz Catholic University, provides a critical perspective on the fervor surrounding the veneration of relics. He acknowledges the historical context that made relic worship plausible in the past but expresses bewilderment at the continued enthusiasm for such practices today. Wintzek, who has visited Assisi multiple times, suggests that merely viewing the bones of St. Francis does not necessarily yield spiritual benefits or insights for modern believers.

The current display of St. Francis’s remains has sparked widespread discussion about the nature of religious experiences and the role of physical artifacts in faith. The timing of the presentation coincides with heightened interest in spiritual connections during these times, highlighting the ongoing tension between traditional practices and contemporary belief systems. As the pilgrimage unfolds, it underscores a complex intersection of faith, tradition, and modern spirituality.