VOICED: La iglesia de los martires

The Basilica of San Bartolomé in Rome, known as the Church of Relics, was donated by Pope John Paul II to the Community of San Egidio in 1993. It serves as a center for remembering Christian martyrs from various denominations. Pilgrims visit to see revered objects like crosses and rosaries. The basilica houses the missal of Óscar Romero, a modern martyr. A 1998 commission reported 12,500 cases of martyrdom, highlighting ongoing persecution in places like Kenya and Nigeria. The Catholic Church receives daily reports of religious violence. Relics, once in decline, were revived by John Paul II to honor new martyrs.

What was the original purpose of the Basilica of San Bartolomeo before it was donated to the Community of Sant'Egidio?

• A Roman temple

• A school

• A museum

• A library

Who was Monsignor Óscar Romero, and what is his significance in the Basilica?

• A bishop who built the basilica

• A pope who donated the basilica

• A martyr whose missal is kept in the basilica

• A saint who founded the basilica

How many reports did the commission on new martyrs receive in 1998?

• 20,000

• 15,000

• 12,500

• 10,000

Which countries are mentioned as examples of where martyrdom is a current reality?

• Brazil and Argentina

• Kenia and Nigeria

• India and China

• Italy and France

What tradition did Pope John Paul II revive with the concept of new martyrs?

• The tradition of relics

• The tradition of building new churches

• The tradition of missionary work

• The tradition of religious festivals