Raleigh, N.C., Jan 31, 2006 / 12:00 am (CNA).- The One Bread Lay Apostolate, a Catholic group in North Carolina, has decided to use its participation in the traditional St. Patrick’s Day parade to promote the authentic meaning of the Irish saint’s commemoration.

Members of the group say they plan to wear t-shirts with prayers to the saint and interesting information about his life.  Some t-shirts will also have a message inviting people to attend Mass at one of the local parishes. They will also pass out flyers and cards with the web address of their diocese as well as that of the One Bread Apostolate (http://1bread.catholic.org), which provides information about the Catholic faith.

In order to encourage young people to participate in the event, the group will hold the first “Catholic Youth Evangelization Awards” during the parade, in order to single out the best costumes and floats.  Trophies, St. Patrick medals and other prizes will be awarded.

After the parade, the group plans to sell baked goods, refreshments, and religious items such as books, rosaries, jewelry and other Irish products.

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