In preparation for the arrival in Hawaii in November of the relics of Italian Capuchin Franciscan mystic and stigmatist St. Pio of Pietrelcina, also known as Padre Pio, the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is hosting a special presentation on the topic of saintly relics in its Kamiano Center, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Oct. 14.
Giving the presentation is Peter Cruz, a parishioner of St. Anthony Church in Kailua who has spent more than 30 years collecting relics and the stories behind them. He will speak on the Catholic Church’s rich tradition of saints and relic veneration, with a special emphasis on holy individuals of modern times, whose lives reflected the love, goodness and mercy of God.
He will display rare relics from his collection for participants to view and venerate.
Cruz has been giving talks and slide presentations about his personal devotion to Our Lady, the saints and relics since 2010, at parishes, in private homes and at diocesan events.
St. Pio’s relics, which have been touring the United States since last year, will visit Holy Rosary Church in Paia, Maui, on Nov. 8, and at the cathedral basilica Nov. 9.
