Relic of Saint Zdislava returns to basilica altar after 18-day theft

After an 18-day absence following its theft, the relic of Saint Zdislava was ceremoniously returned to the main altar of the basilica in Jablonné v Podještědí on Saturday. A large congregation filled the church to witness the event, which culminated in the relic's skull being interred in its crypt beneath the church later that evening, away from public view.

The solemn service was led by Prague Archbishop and administrator of the Litoměřice diocese, Stanislav Přibyl, alongside his predecessor, Bishop Emeritus Jan Baxant. As a stark reminder of the sacrilege, the original reliquary, with its shattered glass, remains on a side altar in the basilica of St. Lawrence and St. Zdislava.

This public display on Saturday was the final opportunity for the faithful to view the relic. Church officials and heritage experts have decided it will be permanently placed in the saint's tomb in the crypt. The pilgrimage itself was accompanied by security measures, beginning with a procession from the nearby village of Zdislava.

In recognition of their efforts in recovering the stolen relic, the Česká Lípa police department will be awarded the honorary title "Unit of Saint Zdislava." The man who stole the skull on May 12, claiming disagreement with its public display, is facing charges for theft, hooliganism, and property damage, and is currently free pending trial.

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It's a shame I only worked with him for one season. But it's his decision.