Question about relics

[mommyof4]

I am hoping someone can clarify something for me regarding relics. Last night, I attended a mass after which the first class relics of 6 martyrs were venerated. I was able to touch my rosary to the reliquary. My question is: does this make my rosary a second class relic or a third class relic? Thanks!

 

[landon13]

That is wonderful and great devotion to do so.

That would make your rosary a 3rd class relic because second class are things used by the saint in their life like clothing or their rosary beads.

Blessings!

Landon

 

[thistle]

I am hoping someone can clarify something for me regarding relics. Last night, I attended a mass after which the first class relics of 6 martyrs were venerated. I was able to touch my rosary to the reliquary. My question is: does this make my rosary a second class relic or a third class relic? Thanks!

The Church does not have any official documentation on the classes of relics.
However, traditionally:

A first class relic is a body part of the saint.
A second class relic is something that was worn or used by the saint.
A third class relic is something that has touched a first class relic (not the container or tomb).

The problem is that because so many people want relics now the way a third class relic is achieved has been watered down too much in my view.

 

[mommyof4]

Thank you for the responses.