Worshipers on Saturday paid tribute to a reliquary containing the bone fragments of six martyred priests, all Knights of Columbus, who were canonized by Pope John Paul II in 2000.
“We are blessed to have those who were willing to die for our faith,” said Dolores Bouis, who attending the showing after Mass at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Denver.
The Mexican priests, members of the world’s largest lay Catholic organization, were killed for refusing to renounce their faith during the 1920s when a revolution in Mexico brought widespread persecution of Catholics.
The priests were Pedro de Jesus Maldonado Lucero, Luis Batiz Sainz, Jose Maria Robles Hurtado, Mateo Correa Magallanes, Miguel de la Mora de la Mora and Rodrigo Aguilar Aleman.
“These are people who laid down their lives for their flock,” said Knights of Columbus spokesman Andrew Walther.
The reliquary traveled throughout Mexico before coming to the United States in March to mark the centennial of the Knights of Columbus in Mexico.
The relics went on display Friday at the Basilica at 1530 S. Logan St. and will continue to be on display there today, ending with the final 6:30 p.m. Mass.
The reliquary cross is about 3 feet tall and made of Mexican silver. Behind it sits a portrait featuring the six slain priests.
“I am very proud and humbled,” said John Daywalt, one of two honorary Knights of Columbus guards who keep solemn watch over the relics.
Staff writer Annette Espinoza can be reached at 303-820-1655 or aespinoza@denverpost.com.
