Treasured Relics of the Basilica
In looking at the grandeur of the Tomb Chapel design, one may be surprised to learn that the Tomb Chapel of St. Thérèse is the permanent home to three relics of St. Thérèse. Though the reliquaries may be over looked, one of the first class relics of Thérèse as well as a second class relic are easily visible to those who know where to look: The depiction of Thérèse in repose includes a hand resting upon her breast. On that hand, in the shape of a ring, is the reliquary which houses a shard of Thérèse’s bone along with a piece of one of her habits. The second reliquary in the Tomb Chapel is also carried by Thérèse, this time somewhat more out of sight. Where the left hand rests across Thérèse’s chest, the right hand lays face up at her side. It is in this hand that the second reliquary is found: Thérèse cradles a cross which houses another first class relic.
More rarely shared is the fact that Little Flower Basilica has the distinction of being home to first class relics of many of the Carmelite saints. In the fall of 2021, in order to celebrate All Carmelite Saints and All Carmelite Souls along with the return of many public activities (e.g. Basilica Heritage Tours and the San Antonio Mastersingers’ Shower of Roses), a special exhibition was held of many of these seldom seen treasures.
St. Maria Maravillas Relic
It is a blessing of the Discalced Carmelite Order that they have produced many saints within the last century and a half. The most well know of these is, of course, our beloved Little Flower to whom the Basilica is dedicated. Two more recent saints which the Basilica is fortunate enough to be the caretaker of relics for are St. Maria Maravillas de Jesus (1891-1974) who was canonized in 2003 and St. Elizabeth of the Trinity (1880-1906) who is one of the most recently canonized Carmelites (2016).
Mother Maravillas was known for her dedication for work and prayer, her humility and care of her younger sisters, and her dedication to the Rules and spirituality of the Discalced Carmelites. She founded many monasteries in Spain and one in India.
St. Elizabeth’s life was a “praise of glory” of the Most Blessed Trinity present in her soul and loved amidst interior darkness and excruciating illness. In the mystery of divine indwelling she found her “heaven on earth,” her special charism, and her mission in the church. Little Flower Basilica is home to two relics of this saint, a first class relic, here pictured, along with a second class relic taken from her habit.
Though not Carmelites, the Basilica is also home to an extraordinary reliquary which houses first class relics of the parents of St. Thérèse, St. Louis Martin and St. Zelie Guerin Martin, who have been praised as Model spouses and devoted parents. They found their strength and hope in regular attendance at Holy Mass and in a deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin. Their model of parenthood and family life led to all of their living children entering the religious life. Interesting to note is that this reliquary was formed from a mantle clock, recalling St. Louis’ profession as a watchmaker.
Sts. Louis and Zelie Martin Relic
One of the most treasured relics of the Basilica belongs to our holy mother, St. Teresa of Jesus. The Basilica is home to two first class relics of St. Teresa. Along with St. John of the Cross, Teresa reformed the Carmelite Order and founded the Order of Discalced Carmelites. She is the first Female Doctor of the Church and is known as the Doctor of Prayer.
Of the many treasures of the Basilica and the Carmelites, these relics are but a few. We invite you to join us in future and explore Little Flower Basilica for yourself and appreciate its hidden jewels.