Revered Saint Ercolano Relics Returned with Celebrations and Fireworks

Pyrotechnic shows are a beautiful tradition, but there was a risk that this custom could be set aside: this must be what the Parish had in mind when planning the celebration dedicated to Saint Ercolano. So, it was done — even though a year of work has gone into reaching this goal.

But let us recall the history. Saint Ercolano, bishop of Brescia, died as a hermit in Campione in 576. Since the riviera towns disputed over his remains, his body was placed on a boat, which, a few days later, docked in Maderno — a town where the revered relics are still kept today.

The story of the relics’ transfer

The parish priest of Campione, Don Giuseppe Zacchi, asked the priest of Maderno, Don Gianfranco Mascher, to be allowed to keep the relics for a few days. This occasion thus becomes not only a religious event but also a moment of historical remembrance, especially when on August 5th a procession will accompany the precious urn to Campione, while on August 11th, in the presence of Bishop Mons. Giulio Sanguineti, a procession of boats will sail near the shores of Garda to return Saint Ercolano to Maderno.

This is a great opportunity for the entire community (what we write here is just a “sampling” of the detailed calendar that has been arranged, and we will have further chances to talk about it) to rediscover their own history and the devotion that has been handed down through the centuries.

The fireworks will take place, and it’s good that they do, but what has been organized is a major event that deserves both attention and participation — not only from the residents of the two involved towns.