Preserved Heart Of Saint Camillus

My wife told me about this preserved heart of a saint she got to see up close when she passed by the chapel of Southern Philippines Medical Center or SPMC (formerly known as Davao Medical Center).  It got me curious, who wouldn't want to see a heart of a real saint preserved though centuries?  It's one of a lifetime opportunity but missed it.  Wifey told me it only stayed there for hours.
 

So I did some surfing.  Saint Camillus de Lellis died on July 14, 1614, and his traveling heart is part of the commemoration of his 400-year death anniversary celebration.  Also, his dedication in caring for the ill made him the patron saint of the sick, hospitals and health workers, this besides the chapel being named after the patron saint, might be the very reason why his blessed remains was chosen to visit the chapel at SPMC.

But then again, as we Catholics are always reminded, that such relics do not posses the power to heal sickness or take away your problems, it is there simply to remind us of people who made sacrifices and offer their lives to Christ, that we may also follow their footsteps and be inspired of their works. 

According to a Camillian priest, St. Camillus' heart can be viewed within the country through a series of pilgrimages before it will be returned to Rome on March 11 of this year.

Other information and details from their poster “Journey of the Heart” that may answer queries about the pilgrimage schedules:

• The pilgrimage duration will be from February 18 to March 10, 2013;
• Visiting Philippine places in Metro Manila, Baguio, Cebu, Davao, Mati and Calbayog Cities;
• You can also visit: www.facebook.com/TheCamillian; and/or
• Contact them at 0917-6039241.

“And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he has committed sins, he shall be forgiven by him” - James 5:15.  Yahweh bless.