In preparation for the arrival of the relics of Padre Pio (see story at left), Peter Cruz, a parishioner of St. Anthony Church in Kailua who collects sacred relics and gives talks about them, displayed and gave a presentation on nine relics in the Kamiano Center of the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace on Oct. 14. The saints and blesseds he featured were St. Bernadette Soubirous of Lourdes (bone relic), Blessed Carlos Manuel Rodriguez (bone relic), St. Damien of Molokai (coffin wood relic), St. Gianna Beretta Molla (clothing relic), Blessed Pauline von Mallinckrodt (bone relic), St. Peregrine Laziosi (bone relic), St. Padre Pio (bandage relic), Blessed Rolando Rivi (hair relic), and the Blessed Virgin Mary (veil relic). The saints, said Cruz, “provide us with role models to emulate and inspire us. Their lives make it clear that holiness is achievable by all.” (Photo courtesy of Peter Cruz)
