A
segment of the remains of a martyr or saint is a relic.
The depositing of relics follows an ancient tradition of our
Church, and these relics help us remember the faith we share today has
been passed down to us by saintly heirs of ages past.
We should remember that as we celebrate the Eucharist, that along
with Jesus our risen Lord, we are in Communion with the saints in the new
altar.
Along with St. Lawrence and St. John Neumann are relics of Irish
and English saints.
This is a prayer of peace and reconciliation, not only in Northern
Ireland but also of peace among all nations.
The Icon panels mounted on the walls to either side of the altar
are of the same motif as the central triptych and the stations of the
cross which surround the Church.
These icons, which depict the eight saints whose relics are now
imbedded in the altar, were written (painted) by the same iconographer,
Peter Pearson.
