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A veneration titled "Our Lord, His Family and His Friends" was presented that included relics of Our Lord, 12 of the Apostles and Evangelists, the Blessed Virgin, Saint Joseph, John the Baptist, Mary Magdalene and her sister Martha - total of about 26 relics. Due to an obstinate rectory staff, little publicity was allowed and few people knew of the event. However, what people did show up were very devoted. Most of them spent considerable time in private prayer before the relics. This was not a "sideshow" for them. The relics were more than simple curiosities. The veneration was sponsored by the parish Lay Carmelite Community. Members of the local Knights of Columbus acted as honor guards throughout the six-hour veneration.
 The display.   Father Blake incensing and blessing the display. Father also led the opening procession and carried the Gothic reliquary containing 7 relics of Our Lord. During a brief talk he emphasized the validity and value of relic venerations. How wonderful it would be if more of our parish priests (including the pastor) shared his attitude!  Part of the "crowd."  Others returned later for some personal prayer before specific relics. |
