The saints are figures close to us: they are not people with extraordinary abilities, but men and women who, aware of their own frailty, followed Christ and discovered that only God can fulfill the desires of the heart. Holiness is not something reserved to a few, but we are all called to be holy. The canonized saints testify to everyone that it is possible to live Christianity fully. Colle di Val d’Elsa has its patron saints who intercede for mankind with God: Saint Martial, Saint Albert of Chiatina, and since 1651 Saint Gregory the Great. The first chapel on the right as you enter is dedicated to Saint Martial, who is shown in a painting made in 1694 by the late baroque artist Melchiorri. The Saint is resuscitating his friend Austriclinianus, who died near Colle di Val d’Elsa, by touching him with his crosier. To the left of the altar are depicted Saints Faustinus and Jovita; Faustinus, the elder, wears priestly vestments; the younger Jovita is dressed as a deacon. An angel holds a palm leaf, the sign of martyrdom, and a Latin inscription which means “this is true brotherhood.” On the right appear Saint Albert of Chiatina and Blessed Pietro Gargaglini, founder of the Franciscan convent in Colle, adoring the Holy Nail which is shown to them by an angel. The angel holds a Latin inscription in his left hand which means “The nail of Christ is the key to heaven.” Just . . .