A Bit of History
The role of the laity in keeping and passing down Christian relics is a fascinating aspect of Christian history, deeply tied to devotion, tradition, and the preservation of sacred memory. Relics—physical objects associated with Jesus, the Virgin Mary, saints, or martyrs—have long held spiritual significance in Christianity, particularly in Catholic and Orthodox traditions. While clergy and religious institutions like churches and monasteries have often been the primary custodians of relics, the laity (ordinary believers not ordained as clergy) have also played a significant role in their preservation and transmission across generations.
Historical Context
Relics emerged as important in early Christianity, especially during the era of martyrdom (1st–4th centuries). Bones, clothing, or objects associated with martyrs were venerated as tangible connections to those who witnessed Christ or lived holy lives. After Christianity was legalized in the Roman Empire (313 CE, Edict of Milan), relic veneration grew, with churches built over martyrs’ tombs and relics distributed widely. While bishops and clergy oversaw major shrines, laypeople were often involved in the grassroots spread of relics, especially during times of persecution, migration, or upheaval.
Today in Eastern Orthodoxy:
In Orthodox traditions, laypeople frequently venerated relics in homes or local parishes, especially icons believed to contain or be associated with relics. In Russia, for instance, lay families might keep icons with relic fragments as part of household prayer.
Searching for the Providence of a Relic
In searching for where your relic may have originated it would help to know something. The more you know, the closer you can get to an answer. Finding a relic in Europe is not the same as breaking the seal and opening up a tomb in Ancient Egypt. Europe has had many upheavals with Wars, persecution and revolution which often forced moving relics about and putting them in hiding.
Many relics are passed down in families, some obtained from monasteries and some even obtained from churches. Vatican 2 made a change in removing the small altar. Altars contain relics which sometimes were found a new home. There were also some organizations who believed that relics could be venerated in homes of believers and found those they believed worthy.
There are plenty of hints to the providence of the relics picture above of two Apostles Andrew and Phillip. They have Bishops seals on either side of the tubes (thecae). The cuts on the bones suggest a Medievil origin or redistribution. Relics are often repaired and given a new presentation over generations and this is typical.
lastly, the issue of fakes or fake relics sanctified as placeholders to receive veneration is always possible. The detail , gold threads, and care aids credibility to authenticity. These relics may or not be authentic, but many believed they were for apparently hundreds of years.
One could carbon date your relics, but I uncovered a great story which I will keep private on request.
I hope you enjoyed my story.