Sacred Relics of the Saints exposition at Holy Cross

Holy Cross Parish hosted a teaching and exposition of Sacred Relics on Saturday, May 22.

Father Carlos Martins of the Companions of the Cross works with the Vatican to present more than 150 relics, some as old as 2000 years.

Father Martins, who converted 25 years ago from being an atheist, said a relic could have the power to change your life. He said "God is a perfect gentleman," entering the heart where invited.

He told examples of people who were healed by the touch of a relic.

There are three levels of relics, Fr. Martins said. The first contains part of a saint, the second contains something a saint owned, the third was touched by a saint.

The relics were housed in special containers (theca), which are sealed. Each had documents to explain what it was. Many could be touched by those present. Father Martins said one saint may "reach out to you."

Among the treasures included a relic portion of the veil of Mary, Mother of God. There was one that contained a piece of the True Cross. Most were saint or apostle relics.

Treasures of the Church is a ministry of evangelization of the Catholic Church and is run by Fr. Martins of the Companions of the Cross religious congregation. Its purpose is to give people an experience of the living God through an encounter with the relics of his saints in the form of an exposition.

More information can be found at http://www.treasuresofthechurch.com .