The Vatican Returns to Duluth
First exhibited in 2004 to commemorate the end of Pope John Paul II’s Jubilee, the reputedly largest privately owned Papal Collection in North America will be on exhibit in Duluth, MN from August 7th – 9th, 2020 at the DECC City Side Convention Center.
Come and explore this unique collection of religious artifacts. Experience history itself; the oldest document for viewing is 804 years old! Included are artifacts from many popes, saints, blesseds, the Swiss Guard and many other notable individuals. See ancient relics (one from the original chair of St. Peter himself), popes’ zuchettos and chasubles, Swiss Guard uniforms and a gilded mirror that was pillaged by Napoleon and his troops when they stormed the Vatican in 1878.
Proceeds will benefit Stella Maris Academy, the Catholic schools of Duluth, MN. Stella Maris is “commissioned by the Catholic Church to prepare lifelong learners who lead, love and serve as Jesus taught – transforming our world one student at a time.” The academy has three campuses located at the parishes of St. James, St. John the Evangelist and Holy Rosary. A portion of the proceeds will also be used for the education of seminarians.
Schedule of Events:
- Friday, August 7th, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
General admission is for 2-hour tour time slots at $20.00 per person. Children ages 10 and under are free. Optional self-guided audio narration is included. - Friday Evening, August 7th, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
A special VIP wine & cheese event will feature keynote speaker, Mark Hall-Patton, from the hit show “Pawn Stars,” and a private viewing of the collection narrated by Rev. Richard Kunst, curator. Tickets are limited to 160 people at $300 per person. These VIP tickets will go FAST! - Saturday, August 8th, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
General admission is for 2-hour tour time slots at $20.00 per person. Children ages 10 and under are free. Optional self-guided audio narration is included. - Saturday Evening, August 8th, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
A dinner gala for major donors will be held at the Kitchi-Gammi Club, with the keynote address from a dignitary yet to be announced, followed by a private viewing of the collection narrated by Rev. Richard Kunst. If you are interested in being a premier donor, please contact Ronda Hughes-Stovern at hughes.mktg@gmail.com
- Sunday, August 9th, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
General admission is for 2-hour tour time slots at $20.00 per person. Children ages 10 and under are free. Optional self-guided audio narration is included.
About the Collection:
Father Richard Kunst started the Collection while working for the U.S. Senate. Over the years, it continued to grow and became so substantial that colleagues encouraged him to share these significant artifacts through a 2nd public viewing in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the birth of Pope St. John Paul II. The first public viewing was in the year 2004 which was chosen for this spectacular event because it commemorated the end of Pope John Paul II’s Jubilee Year.
The Collection has grown substantially since 2004 and now includes items from Pope Francis to Pope St. Victor I (189-199 A.D.) and even a relic from the original chair of St. Peter himself. For much more information, go to papalartifacts.com and check out this video which showcases 50 items:
Mission:
The primary mission of putting this phenomenal collection on display is to educate the public on the history of the Vatican, popes, saints and historical Catholic events. To support the future of Catholic teaching, the proceeds raised during this event will be donated to the endowments that support Catholic schools and seminarians within the Diocese.
Sponsors:
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Contact Information:
Event Location:
DECC City Side Convention Center
350 Harbor Drive, Duluth, MN 55802
Parking and Directions