When Pacelli became Pope Pius XII in 1939 , he authorized a dig under the basilica , and in 1942 archeologists found a niche they believed housed Peter 's remains . Roman Catholics will gather at the Vatican Sunday for service marking `` Year of Faith '' Bones believed to be those of St. Peter will be displayed for first time . Vatican analyst says while bones ' identity is unconfirmed , they are an object of devotion . Score: 6 Bones are a `` scientific controversy ... wrapped in a blanket of belief ''
Roman Catholics will gather at the Vatican Sunday for service marking `` Year of Faith '' Bones believed to be those of St. Peter will be displayed for first time . Vatican analyst says while bones ' identity is unconfirmed , they are an object of devotion . Score: 6 Bones are a `` scientific controversy ... wrapped in a blanket of belief ''