The Relics of Saint Anthony of Padua will return to Ireland from 9 to 16 June, 2016.
Large crowds are expected to gather to venerate the relics of the much loved Saint of lost things. Last time the relics of Saint Anthony visited Ireland there were traffic jams in cities and towns around the country as devotees flocked to honour the 13th century friar, who was one of the earliest members of the Franciscan Order founded by Saint Francis in 1209.
The dates and venues at which the relics can be venerated are as follows:
- 9 June – Saint Mary’s Parish, Cahir, Tipperary
- 10 June – Saint Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney
- 11 June – Basilica of Our Lady, Knock
- 12 June – Saint Mary’s Cathedral, Sligo
- 13 June – Saint Mary’s Pro Cathedral, Dublin
- 14 June – Saint Mel’s Cathedral, Longford
- 15 and 16 June – Saint Eugene’s Cathedral, Derry
- 16 and 17 June – Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh
The relics will remain exposed during Eucharistic Celebrations, and at the conclusion of each Mass, and all those attending will be invited to approach the relics and to receive an extraordinary blessing.
Two relics will visit Ireland, one of which is the relic Pope Francis venerated sixteen years ago in Argentina as Archbishop Jorge Bergoglio of Buenos Aires. Pope Francis’ devotion to Saint Anthony is due to the saint’s love, care and concern for the poor and marginalised. Known for helping people find lost items, Saint Anthony intercedes with those trying to find a job, a home, faith, love, hope and mercy.
The relics will be accompanied in Ireland by Father Mario Conte, editor of the Messenger of St Anthony, the magazine published by the Conventual Franciscan Friars of Saint Anthony’s Basilica in Padua, Italy, where the Saint’s tomb is located.
For more information see www.saintanthonyofpadua.net
ENDS
