Dear Parishioners of St. Helena,
I am writing to share some joyous news and express our heartfelt gratitude for your participation in our recent celebrations. Last weekend, during our 50th Anniversary Mass, we were profoundly blessed to present two first-class relics: one of St. Helena and one of St. Anthony de Padua. These sacred relics were generously offered to the parish by an anonymous donor and graciously presented to our parish by Bishop Gary Janek of the Archdiocese of San Antonio.
Understanding Catholic Relics
In the Catholic tradition, relics are physical objects that have a direct association with the saints or with Jesus Christ. They are venerated by the faithful as tangible connections to the holy men and women who have gone before us. Relics are classified into three categories:
- First-Class Relics: These are items directly associated with the events of Christ's life (such as the manger, the cross) or the physical remains of a saint (such as bones, blood, or hair).
- Second-Class Relics: These include items that a saint personally owned (such as clothing, a book, or another personal item).
- Third-Class Relics: These are items that have touched a first- or second-class relic, thus carrying a transmission of their sanctity.
Relics are not worshipped, but they are venerated. This distinction is crucial in Catholic theology. The veneration shows respect and honor to the saints, acknowledging their holiness and asking for their intercession in our lives.
The Relics of St. Helena Catholic Church
We are humbled and honored to be the custodians of these two first-class relics. The presence of these relics in our church not only enriches our spiritual lives but also connects us to the deep and enduring history of our faith.
St. Helena, known for her extraordinary faith and piety, was the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great. She is credited with finding the True Cross, the very cross upon which Jesus was crucified. Our first-class relic of St. Helena serves as a powerful reminder of her unwavering dedication to the Christian faith and her efforts to preserve its most sacred symbols. St. Helena is the patron saint of converts, archaeologists, and those searching for lost things.
St. Anthony de Padua, a revered Doctor of the Church, is known for his powerful preaching, profound knowledge of scripture, and devotion to the poor and sick. He is often invoked as the patron saint of lost items. The first-class relic of St. Anthony de Padua we possess is a testament to his saintly virtues and his enduring influence on Catholics around the world. St. Anthony is the patron saint of lost things, travelers, and the poor.
The Importance of Relics in Our Faith Community
The veneration of these relics at St. Helena Catholic Church provides us with a unique opportunity for spiritual growth and reflection. Through these sacred objects, we feel a closer connection to the saints, who serve as models of holiness and intercessors before God. The relics inspire us to live more devout lives, to seek the intercession of the saints, and to deepen our commitment to our faith.
We invite all parishioners and visitors to join us in venerating these holy relics. With gratitude and blessings, Rev. Fr. Martin Pablo.