For The Catholic Messenger
The faithful of Iowa are invited to take part in a special pilgrimage of the relics of six Mexican martyr-priests who were members of the Knights of Columbus and gave their lives during the religious persecution in Mexico in the early 20th century.
The relics honor St. Luis Batis Sáinz, St. Rodrigo Aguilar Alemán, St. Miguel de la Mora de la Mora, St. Pedro de Jesús Maldonado Lucero, St. José María Robles Hurtado, and St. Mateo Correa Magallanes, six priests recognized among the Mexican martyrs canonized by St. John Paul II in 2000. Their witness continues to inspire the Church as a testimony of courage, fidelity to Christ, and steadfast defense of religious liberty in the face of persecution.
Organizers hope this pilgrimage will help bring English- and Spanish-speaking communities closer together as they celebrate the diversity of the Church, our unity in Christ, and the defense of religious liberty for which these martyred priests laid down their lives. The visitation of the relics offers a meaningful opportunity for parishes and families to gather in prayer and renew their commitment to the faith these martyrs so courageously professed.
The relic tour will stop at three locations in the Davenport Diocese:
June 21: St. Patrick, Iowa City. Rosary at 11 a.m., Mass at 12:15 p.m., presentation at 1:15 p.m. Snacks provided.
June 22: St. Joseph, West Liberty. Mass at 6 p.m., presentation at 7 p.m. Snacks provided.
June 23 – St. Anthony, Davenport. Mass at 12:05 p.m. and 6 p.m. Presentation at 7 p.m. Snacks provided.
