CV NEWS FEED // Catholics in western North Carolina recently participated in an annual “Cross a Thon,” where faithful walk with crosses as a form of penance, an expression of faith, and a celebration of religious liberty.
The Digital Courier reports that parishioners of Immaculate Conception Church in Forest City, North Carolina, walked from the parish to a local soup kitchen and back to the church. The October 12 walk raised money for local charities.
Parishioner Michael Daigle told the Courier that the procession was led with a relic of St. Jude. He then explained the significance of relics.
“From the Shroud of Turin, or Tilma of Juan Diego, to the miraculous blood of St. Januarius, the Catholic Church keeps and venerates many curious and holy artifacts, known as relics, from Jesus and the saints,” he said.
Daigle noted that the tradition of venerating relics has roots that predate Jesus, and the practice is based in Scripture and centuries of Church teaching.
Parishioner Giuliana Riley added, “Participating in events like this can reinforce, build up our faith. It is a public witness of the cross, and of our Catholic faith.”
Images posted on Catholic News Herald depict people of all ages participating in the walk. After the procession, participants prayed in Eucharistic Adoration and shared a meal together.