Pope Leo XIV’s Pectoral Cross: A Symbol of Augustinian Heritage and Pastoral Commitment

On the day of his election, 8 May, Pope Leo XIV stepped onto the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica wearing a pectoral cross rich in meaning and history. At its heart are relics from five figures of Augustinian spirituality, including Saint Augustine and his mother, Saint Monica — a powerful symbol of episcopal holiness and pastoral dedication.

The cross, gifted to then-Cardinal Robert Prevost by the Augustinian General Curia upon his elevation in 2023, holds bone fragments of Saints Augustine and Monica, alongside those of Saint Thomas of Villanova, Blessed Anselmo Polanco, and Venerable Giuseppe Bartolomeo Menochio.

Chosen by Fr. Josef Sciberras, Postulator General of the Augustinian Order, the relics reflect core values of the Order: fidelity, reform, service, and martyrdom. “This cross isn’t just a decorative object,” said Fr. Sciberras. “It’s a visible sign of faith and a clear reflection of pastoral commitment.”

Saint Augustine, the great Church Father and spiritual guide of the Augustinian Order, taught that encountering God requires introspection guided by both faith and reason. His mother, Saint Monica, is revered for her perseverance and prayer, instrumental in Augustine’s conversion. Their intertwined spiritual journeys are central to Augustinian identity.

Saint Thomas of Villanova, a 16th-century reformer and Archbishop of Valencia, exemplified compassionate leadership, particularly through his care for the poor and his role in priestly formation. Blessed Anselmo Polanco, martyred during the Spanish Civil War, remained with his people to the end, embodying courageous fidelity. Venerable Menochio, who resisted Napoleon’s pressure and served the papacy with unyielding devotion, is remembered for his sanctity and sacrifice.

The relics were prepared by expert Antonino Cottone and placed in the cross’s lipsanotheca before being presented at the International College of Saint Monica. Fr. Sciberras recalled encouraging Cardinal Prevost to wear it before the conclave. “I was deeply moved to see him wearing it as he took the oath and again on the balcony,” he said.

Now worn by Pope Leo XIV, the cross serves as a potent emblem of the spiritual legacy he carries — a pastoral mission deeply rooted in the Augustinian tradition.

Courtesy: Vatican News

Image credits: Vatican News