Four relics in the Pectoral Cross with which Pope Leo XIV presented himself to the world

The relics embedded in the pectoral cross with which Leo XIV has chosen to present himself to the world after his election constitute a rich theological and ecclesial message, outlining a true program of episcopal holiness.

At the top of the cross is a reliquia ex ossibus (a relic from the body) of Saint Monica, mother of Saint Augustine. A strong and tenacious woman, through her tears and tireless prayer, she obtained the conversion of her son, who was baptized at the age of thirty-two. In the Confessions, Augustine exalts her virtues as gifts from God. Pope Francis has also had a strong devotion to Saint Monica and has frequently visited her tomb in the Basilica of Saint Augustine in Campo Marzio, Rome. For the Augustinian Order, Monica’s figure is inseparable from her son's experience of conversion and consecration, the very foundation of Augustinian spirituality.

Builders of communion

At the center of the cross is a reliquia ex ossibus of Saint Augustine, the spiritual father of the Order, who through his Rule and writings has inspired friars, nuns, sisters, and laypeople to embrace the Gospel as builders of communion and promoters of the common good. The Order of Saint Augustine, founded by the Apostolic See in 1244, has progressively assimilated his ideal of life, producing fruits of holiness over the centuries through communal life, intense apostolic activity, study, and deep spirituality.

On the left arm of the cross is a reliquia ex ossibus of Saint Thomas of Villanova, Archbishop of Valencia (†1555), a reformer of religious life, a model shepherd devoted to his flock, and a promoter of missions in the New World. A great theologian, he anticipated some insights later taken up by the Council of Trent. A key figure in the Catholic reform of the 16th century, his cause for the title of Doctor of the Church is underway.

On the right arm of the cross is a relic of Blessed Anselmo Polanco (†1939), Bishop of Teruel, martyr of religious persecution in Spain (1936-1939). Faithful to his people and to the Pope, he was executed for his testimony of faith and the strength of his evangelical word. He remains an unwavering witness of pastoral dedication to the point of shedding his blood. He was beatified in 1995.

At the base of the cross is a relic of the Venerable Giuseppe Bartolomeo Menochio, Bishop of Porfirio and Prefect of the Apostolic Shrine (†1823). Pontifical sacristan since 1800, he courageously served the Church during the Napoleonic storm, remaining steadfast in faith and loyal to the Pope even in the most difficult times. He was a reference figure for the Church in Rome and died in the fame of sanctity. In 1991, Saint John Paul II recognized the heroicity of his virtues.

The relics preserved in the lipsanotheca  (library collection) of the Augustinian general postulation, carefully selected by the general postulator Fr. Josef Sciberras OSA and meticulously prepared by the relic artisan Antonino Cottone for the pectoral cross used by Leo XIV on the day of his election, are not mere decorations but a visible profession of faith and a true pastoral orientation. They evoke figures of holiness linked to the Augustinian Order, embodying fidelity, reform, service, and martyrdom—all elements that illuminate and uphold the ministry of the new Pontiff.