JP II relics a wakeup call for Mexico’s gangsters?
PR dla Zagranicy
John Beauchamp
18.08.2011 09:44
Holy relics of the Blessed John Paul II, including an ampoule of blood, have arrived in Mexico for a four-month peregrination across the country, distraught by gang warfare.
The relics’ four-month peregrination across the country will see the holy remains of John Paul II visit some 90 Mexican towns in an effort to unite its citizens during a time of violence.
Apart from the ampoule of blood, the Polish Pope’s skullcap, papal attire and shoes have left for the troubled country, where on 25 August they will be taken to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe before being sent out to surrounding dioceses.
The idea behind the peregrination of the holy relics is to unite a country which has been witness to bloody gang warfare between drugs cartels lasting over a year.
The ongoing violence prompted bishops to ask the Vatican for the holy relics of John Paul II, and have appealed to gangsters to treat the holy remains of the Polish pope with respect.
Pope John Paul II visited Mexico five times during his pontificate. During his last visit in 2002, he said “I am going, but I am not leaving. I remain in your hearts.” (jb)
Source: IAR