The Knights of Saint Columbanus, the Lay Dominicans, the Kerry Priory Youth Club and the Children's Rosary group were amongst the congregation gathered in Holy Cross for the celebration of Mass and the very special blessing of the new shrine.
Prior Provincial Fr John Harris OP, who celebrated Mass, was joined by Monsignor Anthony Figueiredo, Monsignor Michael Quinlan, Fr Tadhg Fitzgerald, Prior Fr David McGovern OP, Fr Louis Hughes OP and Fr Seamus Tuohy OP for the blessing of the shrine. Monsignor Figueiredo's homily on Carlo's path to sainthood, by its characteristically simple yet deeply inspiring nature, encouraged us to trust that each of us can, through very simple means, reach the depths of God's holiness in our everyday lives.
What is usually a full Church for the monthly Mass in honour of St Carlo was, on this occasion, overflowing. Members of the Youth Club and the Children's Rosary group gracefully participated in the Liturgy of the Word and the offertory procession. Fr David's 'army of altar servers', as so he often calls them, assisted with great reverence.
The sense of joy was magnified by the splendid singing of Holy Cross Choir, the beauty of Musical Director Shelby Mulvihill's voice and the enriching music of organist Ryan Mulvihill. The role of Mercy Mounthawk Secondary School student Áine Newsome's outstanding painting of Carlo in drawing people towards God was acknowledged by Monsignor Figueiredo.
Prior Fr David and the community wish to express their gratitude to all who attended, assisted and generously contributed on the night.
The exceptional work of John and Darren in fashioning a most fitting shrine is acknowledged by Fr David. Their craftmanship in wonderfully blending old mahogany from disused furniture was in keeping with Pope Francis' call for the protection and care of earth's resources.
Fr David extends his sincere thanks to Monsignor Anthony for his support in gifting two first-class relics to Holy Cross and for his spiritual inspiration on each of his three visits to Tralee. In his homily, Monsignor Figueiredo encouraged everyone to visit the shrine regularly. The community at Holy Cross welcomes all to come to pray through the intercession of Saint of the Young, Carlo Acutis.
Saint Carlo Acutis, pray for us.
