Los Angeles, Calif., Apr 28, 2008 / 20:22 pm
A Los Angeles-based apostolate is sending relics of Catholic saints to U.S. troops based around the world and to their families in the United States.
The Apostolate for Holy Relics (AHR), working with the Archdiocese for Military Services in Washington, D.C., is touring military bases with the relics of saints who are patrons of armed forces. The tour is co-sponsored by the Sacred Military Constantinian Order of St. George.
AHR is bringing to military bases the relics of St. Anthony of Padua (patron saint of sailors), St. Therese of Lisieux (patron of pilots and aircrew) and St. Ignatius Loyola (patron of soldiers). The tour began on April 22 with an opening celebration at the Archdiocese for Military Services Chapel in Washington, D.C. Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio presided over the event.
"Under pressure and in circumstances that most civilians cannot even imagine, our troops have to deal not only with the constant reality of death but – in addition – with the ups and downs of life as well," said AHR President Thomas Serafin in a press release. "Our hope is that the visit of these relics will allow our troops a special moment of prayerful reflection and will give them a sense that we at home stand behind them in prayer as well as in word."