JERUSALEM, MARCH 18, 2011 (Zenit.org).- The relics of St. Thérèse of Lisieux arrived Monday in the Holy Land for a two-month visit, continuing a worldwide tour that has included even a trip to outer space.
The relics were displayed Wednesday for one day in the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, before being moved to the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth.
The reliquary will be brought to various Christian communities in Israel, the Palestinian Authority and the Gaza Strip, in this way building «a bridge of peace,» said Auxiliary Bishop William Shomali of Jerusalem.
The prelate affirmed, «On the Church level, it’s very important.»
He continued: «Part of our faith is that saints have intercession — mediation between us and God.
«This is done by praying to them, honoring them but first and foremost imitating them.»
The bishop underlined in particular the example of St. Thérèse, «how she loved the Lord and practiced spirituality.»
He said, «Her intercession is very strong, and will help us in praying for peace.»
The reliquary will be in the Holy Land until May 31, at which point it will be brought to Spain.
A relic of St. Thérèse went to outer space with Colonel Ron Garan, who was on the May 31-June 14, 2008, Discovery shuttle mission. The relic was given him by the Carmelite community of New Caney, Texas.
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