Almost 100,000 flock to view remains of saint in Spain

In Alba de Tormes, Spain, Catholic worshippers gathered in large numbers to pay their respects to the remains of Saint Teresa of Ávila, whose body was displayed more than 440 years after her death. This unprecedented event attracted nearly 100,000 visitors over a two-week period, showcasing an intense reverence for the 16th-century mystic and religious reformer. The display featured the saint's remains in a silver casket, revealing a skull clad in a habit along with vestments covering other body parts. Not all of her body is intact, and officials noted that her heart is stored in a different part of the church while relics like fingers and a hand are preserved in churches across Europe. The last public display occurred in 1914, allowing devotees a solitary day to honor her, making this recent exhibition significant for the church and her followers. The prior of the Discalced Carmelites of Salamanca, Miguel Ángel González, highlighted the sense of connection many felt during their encounter with the saint's relics. Worshippers recounted experiences filled with a mix of emotions, including joy and sadness, as they took part in this event, which marked a rare opportunity in their lifetime to connect with a figure esteemed for her spiritual contributions. Additionally, the potency of Saint Teresa’s legacy remains vibrant, as her writings continue to impact contemporary spirituality, despite the controversy surrounding some of her thoughts and meditations on her relationship with God. This recent display not only honored the memory of the saint but also sparked discussions online about the nature of relics and veneration within the context of modern faith, revealing a complex interplay between historical devotion and contemporary beliefs. The procession upon resealing the casket involved a communal outpouring of grief and respect, further emphasizing the deep significance of Teresa’s legacy for her followers in this modern era.