MEDIA CONTACT:
Jeanette DeMelo, Director of Communications, Archdiocese of Denver
303-715-3230 or jeanette.demelo@archden.org
March 26, 2012
By popular demand, saint relics exhibit returns to Denver
Display features pieces of Jesus’ cross and veil of Virgin Mary
As area Christians prepare to mourn the death of Jesus Christ on the cross on April 6, Good Friday, they have an opportunity to venerate one of the largest relics believed to exist of that cross.
Father Carlos Martins, CC, a Vatican-appointed expert on saint relics, will return to northern Colorado this week, March 25-April 1 with an exhibit of more than 150 relics* of saints canonized by the Catholic Church. It is highlighted by one of the largest relics of the True Cross as well as a piece of the veil that, according to sanctioned tradition, is believed to have belonged to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Father Martins first visited seven Catholic churches in northern Colorado last December. After hearing of the standing-room-only crowds at each location, Bishop James Conley, apostolic administrator, quickly invited Father Martins to return for a second tour.
Since converting to Catholicism 14 years ago, Father Martins has amassed a collection of relics numbering several thousand through his ministry Treasures of the Church. He tours the world with the collection that includes St. Maria Goretti, St. Thérèse of Lisieux, St. Francis of Assisi, St. Thomas Aquinas and St. Faustina Kowalska.
Father Martins begins each exposition with a 60-minute presentation that provides the catechetical and spiritual basis for the procession of veneration that follow.
*Note: The Catholic tradition of venerating relics is similar to a family continuing to cherish the belongings of a relative that died. It’s a sign of respect, of nearness or remembrance. Veneration of relics isn’t worship, but simply a way to honor and draw near to the saints, petitioning for their prayers, since they are believed to be so close to God.
The March 25-April 1 tour schedule is listed below. There is no charge for the event.
For more information, contact Jeanette DeMelo at jeanette.demelo@archden.org or visit www.treasuresofthechurch.com.
"Treasures of the Church" Tour Schedule:
Presented by: Father Carlos Martins, CC
Online: www.treasuresofthechurch.com
Cost: No cost, freewill donations accepted
Dates
March 26, 6:30 p.m.
Holy Family High School, Broomfield
303-410-1411
March 27, 6:30 p.m.
John II Paul Center, Denver, Bonfils Hall
303-722-4687
March 28, 6:30 p.m.
Christ the King Parish, Denver
303-388-1643
March 29, 6:30 p.m.
Bishop Machebeuf High School, Denver
303-344-0082
March 30, 7 p.m.
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Fort Collins
970-226-1303
March 31, 7 p.m.
St. Mary, Greeley
970-352-1724
April 1, 1:30 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.
Blessed Sacrament, Denver
303-355-7361
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