Dear Bishop, What are your thoughts on 'purchasing' relics from such sources as the internet? Assuming they are authentic, my understanding is that these sacred objects are not to be sold but clearly 'donated' to a church, mission, etc. On the other hand, purchase of a relic will take it out of circulation for one's private chapel or church, which at least, takes it out of commerce and potential 'nefarious' sources. Thoughts? Thanks! Joseph
Buying relics should probably be avoided. Their authenticity, for the most part, is doubtful, but, even presuming the item is genuine, the dubious practice in my view is morally questionable. I can see your point in wanting to take a genuine relic out of the market place, but in doing so you are obliged to engage in the commercial process itself, which is distasteful in the extreme. True relics very rare and beyond price. They should be donated without the involvement of money to the appropriate church, chapel or shrine.
This item is a reliquary supposedly containing a relic of St Nikolaus, and is currently on sale at $150.00 plus $20.00 postage. Santa Claus, of course, is based on St Nikolaus (aka St Nicholas). Most adults tend not to believe in Santa Claus until faced with the prospect of acquiring a "relic" of his originator with a price tag to match.
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