Photo Caption: My mission team.

I went on a faith-based mission trip to Quebec City one summer.

We welcomed millions of pilgrims that made their way to the Basilique-cathédrale Notre Dame de Québec. It was a special summer because this Church received a Holy Door. This Door is open for anyone to walk through during a Holy Year. It gives us the chance to receive blessings and conversions.

Pilgrims mistakenly called it La Porte Magique, The Golden Door, the Sinner’s Door etc. But it was a Door that allowed others to enter into a renewed life with Jesus Christ. And I gave tours in the museum up top for those who were interested.

One afternoon in the museum, I looked down and saw countless people line up to kiss St. John Paul II’s relic. I didn’t know this at the time, but St. John Paul II was probably the most incredible man that lived in the 20th century. And I didn’t fully understand that relics provide a way for us to encounter God in a physical way. I thought it was weird that people kissed a dead man’s bone. Friends came up and said, “Trevor! Aren’t you going to venerate the relic?” I initially said no.

Some time went by and I continued to see people line up. Hmmm. Maybe there’s something there. I don’t have anything to lose. Why don’t I go down and kiss it? 

So I mustered up humility and courage to join the long lineup. As I walked slowly to the altar, I asked St.John Paul II, “What can I pray for?” My friends said we can receive special blessings when we pray with relics. And so my intention was this: that I could love Jesus as much as St. John Paul II did. I thought that would be a good start.

I kissed the relic, the mission trip continued, and lives were changed. Including mine.

A few months later, I felt completely filled with God’s love. I responded emphatically many times before going to bed, “I love you Jesus.” I really meant it.

As we celebrate St.Valentine’s with those that we love, let us also spend time with Jesus. Have you told Jesus that you love Him? Is there something holding you back from saying these words? Don’t worry. If you don’t feel ready, ask St. John Paul II or another Saint for help. 

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