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A relic tour featuring St. Jude, led by Father Carlos Martins of the Companions of the Cross order, was abruptly halted on November 21 due to an alleged incident involving students. The event took place at Queen of Apostles Church in the Diocese of Joliet, Illinois. The diocese and church officials have not disclosed specific details about the incident.
In a statement released by Father Michael Lane and Father Gregory Alberts from Queen of Apostles Church, it was confirmed that the police were contacted immediately following the reported incident. The priest involved was asked to leave both the parish and diocese as a precautionary measure. "In an abundance of caution, we decided that the remainder of the veneration of the relic and evening mass would be cancelled," they stated.
The decision aligns with diocesan policies regarding safe environments and behavior standards. Bishop Ronald Hicks supported this decision and subsequently canceled further scheduled stops in two additional parishes within the diocese. The bishop also informed the Superior of the Companions of the Cross Order about these developments.
The statement reassured that "all involved in this incident are safe." OSV News has reached out to both Father Martins and the Joliet Police Department for comments but has yet to receive a response.
Father Martins is recognized as "the church-appointed custodian of the relic," which involves bone fragments believed to be from St. Jude's arm. This tour, known as "Apostle of the Impossible," started in September 2023 but now lists all remaining events through December 2024 as canceled due to unforeseen circumstances.
Father Martins is originally from Ontario, Canada, and converted from atheism. He co-hosts “The Exorcist Files” podcast with Ryan Bethea, sharing firsthand accounts from his experiences as an exorcist.
Lauretta Brown serves as culture editor for OSV News and can be followed on X (formerly Twitter) @LaurettaBrown6.
