Procession of the Relic of Saint Kateri on the way to the Purification Rite of the Sacred Smoke

The 2015 celebration of St. Kateri at the National Shrine of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha began with Saturday, July 11th and Sunday, July 12th Masses and ended with the Mass on the Feast Day of Saint Kateri, Tuesday, July 14th. The Mass on Saturday Evening drew approximately 150 people to a simple but deeply spiritual event. The Sunday gathering was celebrated with over 200 congregants, with more on a ceremonial emphasis for the many guests from near and far; the most distant traveler being Maryknoll Missionary Fr. Edmundo, from Peru. The Mass began with a procession carrying the relic of St. Kateri and a purification rite when sacred smoke is passed over the people. The singing was in Mohawk with the women from Akwesasne playing drums and rattles. After the Mass was concluded all were invited to the fire pit and the burning of recent petitions for healing and prayers. Prior to placing the basket in the pit, the fire was blessed with the traditional tobacco, by Friar Mark Steed, OFM Conv., Director of the Shrine.

Saint Kateri Tekakwitha Prayer
God of all creation, goodness and love,
our hearts are filled with gratitude and praise for You.
In our beloved St. Kateri You have found gentleness and peace.
In her You have heard once more “Jesus, I love You”.
In St. Kateri Tekakwitha You have given
Your Church a new maiden of the Gospel for Your Son.
As the indigenous peoples of North America
celebrate her goodness and as all the Church
honors her holiness we raise our voices in praise and joy.
You have given us a gift beyond all measure
and we ask You to help us celebrate this treasure
as we live holy and peace-filled lives in Your name.
Please continue to grant our request
and the needs of our brothers and sisters
through St. Kateri’s intercession in her heavenly home.
Amen.

The 15th annual Peace Conference will be held at the Shrine the weekend of August 14-15, 2015.