Catholics across the Diocese will have a unique opportunity this June to venerate the relics of St Gerard Majella as part of a national tour marking the 300th anniversary of the saint’s birth.
One of the Church’s most beloved saints, St Gerard Majella was born in 1726 in Muro Lucano, Italy, and became a Redemptorist lay brother renowned for his humility, holiness, and compassionate service to the poor. Three centuries after his birth, his witness continues to inspire countless people throughout the world.
As part of the anniversary celebrations taking place across England and Wales, St Gerard’s relics will visit four parishes within our Diocese, offering the faithful a special opportunity for prayer, veneration, and blessing.
Diocesan Schedule
Northampton Cathedral
Monday 8 June 12 noon Mass and 7.00pm Mass
St Thomas Aquinas, Bletchley
Tuesday 9 June 7.00pm Mass
Our Lady Help of Christians, Luton
Wednesday 10 June 7.00pm Mass
St Augustine’s, High Wycombe
Thursday 11 June 6.00pm Mass
At each church, the doors will open one hour before Mass to allow time for personal prayer before the relics. Following Mass, individual and family blessings will be available.
St Gerard is especially venerated as the patron saint of expectant mothers, unborn children, and those longing for the gift of a child. For generations, families have sought his powerful intercession for safe pregnancies and healthy births. He is also invoked by motorists and travellers, who ask for God’s protection on their journeys.
Fr Simon Penhallagan, Dean of Northampton Cathedral said:
“We are delighted to welcome the relics of St Gerard Majella to Northampton Cathedral during this special anniversary year. The presence of the relics offers a wonderful opportunity for prayer and reflection, drawing us closer to Christ through the example of this humble and holy saint. St Gerard’s deep trust in God’s providence and his special care for expectant mothers, families, and those in need continue to inspire the faithful today. I warmly invite people from across the Diocese to join us in honouring St Gerard and seeking his intercession.”
The visit of a saint’s relics is a cherished tradition in the Catholic Church, drawing the faithful into a deeper communion with those who have gone before us marked with the sign of faith. Through the relics, Catholics are reminded that the saints remain close to us, encouraging us by their example and interceding for us before God.
All are warmly invited to take part in these special celebrations and to seek the prayers of St Gerard Majella during this significant anniversary year.
