The shrine containing the relics of Saint Therese are escorted into the Holy Family Church at a special mass last Friday. (see full story below)
For the first time in 18 years the relics of Saint Therese are on a four-month pilgrimage in Australia with her parents Saints Louis and Zelie Martin.
The Parkes Holy Family Parish was asked to host the relics of the Carmelite saint and her parents on this pilgrimage.
The relics arrived for the 10am mass last Friday with Lionel Lovett doing a wonderful Welcome to Country after which the shrines containing the relics were escorted into the church.
The mass was concelebrated by Bishop Columba, Fathers Barry Dwyer, Vincent Kamba and Christopher Lim.
In his homily Bishop Columba explained how St Therese’s parents were a guiding light in her life and as a Carmelite nun made nearly every task she did a prayer to God.
The beautiful singing of the Holy Family Church and Holy Family School choirs contributed to a moving service.
Pupils from Trundle St. Patricks, Peak Hill St. Josephs, Parkes Holy Family Schools and Red Bend Catholic College attended.
Visitors came from as far as Hay, Narromine, Condobolin, Peak Hill, Trundle and Ulladulla.
Following the mass all were given the opportunity to venerate the relics.
By Michael Craft