Pope Leo XIV recently took part in a ceremony connected to the relic of the blood of Saint Januarius (San Gennaro) during his pastoral visit to Naples, one of the most important religious traditions in southern Italy.

At the Naples Cathedral, Pope Leo XIV venerated the relic containing the saint’s blood, prayed before it, and participated in a ceremony attended by clergy, religious, and large numbers of faithful. During the visit, he kissed the relic and raised the ampoule before those gathered in the cathedral, offering a blessing.

The event drew particular attention because it took place only days after Church authorities had confirmed the traditional liquefaction of the blood, a phenomenon that many Neapolitans regard as a significant sign ᴀssociated with their patron saint. Reports from local and Catholic media noted that the blood was again observed in a liquefied state during the Pope’s visit, prompting applause and emotional reactions inside the cathedral.

The devotion to Saint Januarius is deeply woven into the idenтιтy of Naples. Three times each year, faithful gather to witness the public presentation of the relics and pray for the saint’s intercession. The tradition dates back centuries and remains one of the most recognized religious observances in Italy.

During his address in Naples, Pope Leo XIV encouraged the local Church to build what he called a “culture of care,” urging Catholics to respond to social challenges through solidarity, faith, and service to others. He also entrusted the city to the protection of Saint Januarius and the Virgin Mary.

For many faithful present, the ceremony combined ancient religious tradition with a contemporary message of hope, unity, and spiritual renewal, making it one of the most memorable moments of Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Naples.