John Paul II's relics to be displayed in Manila

MANILA, Philippines — Relics of Blessed John Paul II will go on public display in Manila as a prelude to his impending canonization on April 27.

The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines announced that the revered Polish pontiff's zuchetto or skullcap, part of his cassock, bloodstain and hair strands will be available for the faithful's veneration.

Event organizer Dave dela Cruz said in a statement that the relics will come in two sets from Poland and Rome.

About 50 replicas of items he used to celebrate Holy Mass and other sacraments will also be part of the exhibit.

The relics will go on tour in 10 locations, with Manila as the first stop.

• Radio Veritas Chapel in Quezon City on April 1;
• Blessed John Paul II Parish in Eastwood, Quezon City on April 26 to May 18;
• St. Joseph Parish in Upper Bicutan, Taguig City on May 9 to 12;
• Holy Cross Parish in Matingain, Lemery, Batangas on May 13 to 16;
• Holy Family Parish in Kamias, Quezon City on May 17 to 18;
• Immaculate Conception Parish at the GSIS village in Project 8 on May 24 to 25, Quezon City; and
• Sta. Maria de la Cabeza Mission Station in Brgy. Mangoso, Sigma, Capiz on May 26 to 30
• St. Paul of the Cross Parish in Conception Dos, Marikina City on May 31 to June 1.

John Paul II visited the country twice as pope. - Camille Diola