Shrines of St. Gerard Majella
There are many places in which the Blessed St Gerard Majella is worshipped although these do appear predominantly to be either in the USA, Italy or Ireland.
For example his statue can be found on the high altar at St. Alphonsus Church Chicago, Illinois. Niches with statues of this Saint of motherhood can also be found in many hospitals in the east of America mostly thanks to the good works of Father Thomas Roche, C. SS.R. Director of the St. Gerard Centre. The Saint Gerard guild has previously received glowing letters in praise of these shrines and the help they have been.
The south transept of the basilica has 3 altars. The main altar is dedicated to St. Joseph, Mary’s husband. Beneath this altar lie the remains of St. Jude Thaddeus. As we know, many millions from all parts of the world visit the Vatican each year and an uncountable number certainly visit this greatest shrine in the world dedicated to beloved St. Jude.
One nun wrote of her fears when assuming responsibility for a bustling maternity ward however once she had placed a picture of Saint Gerard on the wall and had the ward dedicated to him things certainly started to look up!
“I introduce every patient to him, give them each a medal and urge them to pray to him for a happy delivery. I’ve been in charge here for a good many years, and it would take a good sized volume to tell the wonderful favors St. Gerard has wrought here for mothers and their little ones.”
One particularly important shrine is St Lucy’s parish church
in Newark, NJ where the St. Gerard chapel has been dedicated
as a national shrine. From the glorious artwork on the chapel
ceiling to the kind and loving people there, it is truly a place
of peace and God’s love.
 |
They also have a Saint Gerard Plaza outside which is open
to the public. Surrounding the verdant lawn are statues both of
the Blessed Gerard and others such as The Virgin, Padre Pio and
St Theresa and St Lucy. But for those who are able there is always
the place of Saint Gerard’s earthly life and miracles.
Materdomini is located 40 miles southeast of Naples , at present it can be reached by both car and bus but there is no train service. Muro Lucano where Blessed Gerard was born is a small distance up the mountain side. The little village its self is beautiful with narrow winding streets and breath taking views. Many of the Redemptorists travel there in order to spend time in contemplation.
Last but by no means least there is the annual Novena to St. Gerard
at St Joseph’s Redemptorist church in Dundalk, Ireland.
St Josephs its self is an imposing stone building set in beautiful country side
which every year welcomes 10,000 people a day through it’s
doors for the Annual Solemn Novena. This runs from the 8th to
the 16th of October and is known as a Festival of faith which
brings spiritual comfort to those lucky enough to attend.
|
