Christian clergymen carry a wooden relic believed to be from Jesus’ manger at the Notre Dame church in Jerusalem in 2019.
AP Photo/Mahmoud Illean
Relics often provided a way to bring more pilgrims into a church – and therefore, more offerings.
Mosaic in San Vitale Basilica, Ravenna, Italy.
nimu1956/Collection E+ via Getty images
Millions step into cathedrals and chapels on a regular basis. The history of these places of worship offers important insights into Christianity.
People wearing masks and social distancing at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes on May 30, 2020.
Laurent Dart/AFP via Getty Images
Coronavirus is causing religious communities to rethink ways of expressing their faith. In the spirit of finding innovative ways to continue rituals, the pilgrimage to Lourdes was conducted online.