Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France
St. Louis, MO
July 8th to July 10th
"We were a little anxious, anticipating the arrival of St. Bernadette, after seeing the crowds that came to other parishes who had hosted the relics," explained Father Nicholas Smith, Pastor of the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France. "Parking can be a problem because we are located right next to the St. Louis Arch."
"But once St. Bernadette arrived, all worry went away," said Tina Hodak, Office Manager for the Basilica. "The opening Mass was beautiful, followed by a Rosary Procession along the Mississippi River and under the Arch."
"We saw people travel from all over," said Father Smith. "We heard what brought many people to St. Bernadette, with many people in tears. On Sunday, it was the biggest day for people to venerate the relics. The line was wrapped around the Church, and people waited for 3 - 4 hours. We believe St. Bernadette is The Rock Star. It was really emotional to send her away after she had been the focus of our thoughts for so many months. But we would do it again," concludes Father Smith.