This week’s reflection brings us to a significant event: the official presentation of a first-class relic to the newly established St. John Paul II Shrine of Divine Mercy in Salem, Massachusetts. This momentous occasion, presided over by Cardinal O’Malley, marks a new chapter for the shrine and offers a unique opportunity for pilgrimage and devotion within the Archdiocese.
Cardinal O’Malley celebrates a Mass at the Shrine of Divine Mercy in Salem to officially present a relic of Pope St. John Paul II, April 7, 2018. Following the Mass, there was a luncheon, time of prayer and a Way of the Cross procession through the streets of Salem. Pilot photo/ Mark Labbe
The dedication ceremony, a vibrant celebration of faith, centered around a special Mass at the shrine. Cardinal O’Malley, joined by Bishop Mark O’Connell, Shrine Rector Father Robert Bedzinski, and Father Pawel Bandurski, led the service in a packed church filled with enthusiastic devotees of both Divine Mercy and Pope John Paul II. The presence of such a large and engaged congregation underscored the deep spiritual significance of the shrine for the community.
The heart of the event was the presentation of the relic itself – a first-class relic of Pope St. John Paul II, a treasure gifted by Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz. This relic, blood of the beloved saint, now permanently resides at the Pope John Paul Ii Shrine, offering visitors a tangible connection to the late Pope and his enduring legacy. Accompanying this precious relic were two additional significant items: a chalice gifted to Cardinal Medeiros by Pope John Paul II during his 1979 visit, and a vestment of John Paul II, a personal gift to Cardinal O’Malley from Dr. Domenico Giani. These items collectively enrich the shrine’s spiritual offerings and serve as powerful reminders of Pope John Paul II’s presence and influence.
Cardinal O’Malley celebrates a Mass at the Shrine of Divine Mercy in Salem to officially present a relic of Pope St. John Paul II, April 7, 2018. Following the Mass, there was a luncheon, time of prayer and a Way of the Cross procession through the streets of Salem. Pilot photo/ Mark Labbe
The atmosphere during the Mass was described as one of great enthusiasm and profound devotion. Attendees, deeply moved by the occasion, expressed their reverence for Pope John Paul II and their commitment to the message of Divine Mercy. This fervor highlights the shrine’s role as a focal point for spiritual growth and reflection within the region.
Following the spiritually enriching Mass, the celebration continued with a luncheon featuring traditional Polish cuisine, a nod to Pope John Paul II’s Polish heritage. The day culminated in a solemn Way of the Cross procession through the streets of Salem, further solidifying the shrine’s presence within the local community and providing a public expression of faith and devotion.
Cardinal O’Malley celebrates a Mass at the Shrine of Divine Mercy in Salem to officially present a relic of Pope St. John Paul II, April 7, 2018. Following the Mass, there was a luncheon, time of prayer and a Way of the Cross procession through the streets of Salem. Pilot photo/ Mark Labbe
The establishment of the St. John Paul II Shrine of Divine Mercy is seen as a significant blessing for Salem and the wider archdiocese. Shrines serve as vital spiritual centers in today’s world, offering individuals a space for sacramental encounters and renewed connection with the Church. This new shrine is envisioned as a welcoming destination for pilgrimage, inviting people from near and far to experience spiritual enrichment and deepen their faith journey within the Archdiocese of Boston. Cardinal O’Malley encourages everyone to visit the Pope John Paul II Shrine, emphasizing its importance as a local pilgrimage destination.
Cardinal O’Malley celebrates a Mass at the Shrine of Divine Mercy in Salem to officially present a relic of Pope St. John Paul II, April 7, 2018. Following the Mass, there was a luncheon, time of prayer and a Way of the Cross procession through the streets of Salem. Pilot photo/ Mark Labbe
Beyond the dedication of the Pope John Paul II Shrine, the week included a range of other significant activities. Earlier in the week, the Holy Father Pope Francis released his Apostolic Exhortation, Gaudete et Exsultate (“Rejoice and be Glad”), a profound reflection on holiness in everyday life. This accessible and insightful document encourages all to embrace the call to holiness, reminding us that it is not an unattainable ideal, but rather the path to true human flourishing, echoing the teachings of Jesus and the examples of both canonized and “next-door” saints.
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The annual Co-Workers in the Vineyard conference, held at St. Patrick’s Church in Watertown, brought together individuals involved in various ministries across the archdiocese. This day of reflection and enrichment, featuring keynote speaker Deacon Greg Kandra, provided a valuable opportunity for spiritual renewal and collaboration among those serving the Church.
2018 Co-Workers in the Vineyard Conference held at St. Patrick Church in Watertown, April 6, 2018. Pilot photo/ Mark Labbe
2018 Co-Workers in the Vineyard Conference held at St. Patrick Church in Watertown, April 6, 2018. Pilot photo/ Mark Labbe
2018 Co-Workers in the Vineyard Conference held at St. Patrick Church in Watertown, April 6, 2018. Pilot photo/ Mark Labbe
The archdiocese also celebrated the Walk with Mary at Mission Church in Roxbury, a beautiful Holy Hour and procession honoring the Virgin Mary. This event, held on the eve of Divine Mercy Sunday, showcased the diverse cultural expressions of Marian devotion within the community.
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Cardinal O’Malley also participated in Easter Vigil celebrations with both the Greek Orthodox Cathedral and the Ethiopian and Eritrean Ge’ez Rite Catholic community, highlighting the rich tapestry of Christian traditions within the city. Additionally, meetings with seminarians and the bishops of the Boston Province, and attendance at the Cushing Society Celebration for St. Mary’s School in Lynn filled the week, reflecting the Cardinal’s ongoing engagement with various facets of the Church and community.
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Provincial Bishops meeting, April 11, 2018. Pilot photo/ Gregory L. Tracy
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In conclusion, the dedication of the relic at the St. John Paul II Shrine of Divine Mercy stands out as a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring legacy of a beloved saint. This new shrine offers a dedicated space for prayer, reflection, and pilgrimage, inviting all to deepen their faith and experience the grace of Divine Mercy through the intercession of Pope John Paul II. We encourage everyone to visit this sacred site in Salem and discover the spiritual blessings it offers.
