Blessing of Palms on the Feast of Saint Peter of Verona, April 29
April 29th, is the Feast of Saint Peter of Verona (also known as Saint Peter Martyr), a 13th century Dominican inquisitor who was martyred while combating the heresies of his time. His spilled blood helped to convert his assassin who was later beatified.
St. Peter’s feast day is only celebrated universally according to the 1962 liturgical calendar. An ancient custom calls for the blessing of palms on his feast day.
The traditional belief is that the palms, when buried on one’s property, can help protect against natural disasters.
The Carolina Traditional Liturgy Society is making the blessed St. Peter Verona palms available at the Chapel of the Little Flower those who do not already have them (while quantities last).
To learn more about the great Dominican saint celebrated in this custom please consult the following articles:
The Death of St. Peter Martyr
Giovanni Girolamo Savoldo, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons (circa 1530)
