Police Return Relics of St. Raphael to St. Vladimir's Seminary

Photo: Yonkers Police Department

YONKERS — In a first for the 154-year history of the Yonkers Police Department, officers were called to St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Seminary last week to collect what staff believed were illicit substances left by trespassers.

Officer Rotondo and K9 partner Furby secured the items for disposal, but a later call from the seminary revealed the truth: the supposed substances were actually relics of St. Raphael of Brooklyn. The relics had accidentally fallen out of a priest’s bag before being recovered by staff unaware of their significance.

The relics were promptly returned by Officer Rotondo to Fr. Michael Nasser. In gratitude, the seminary invited the YPD K9 Unit, Commissioner Sapienza, and other department leaders for a blessing ceremony led by Dr. Ionuţ-Alexandru Tudorie, Fr. Nasser, and seminarian Luke Anderson.

Photo: Yonkers Police Department

Police said they’ve seen many unusual calls over the years, but this one was especially memorable — and they were glad to help return the cherished relics.

"We are so thankful to YPD for returning the relics of St. Raphael of Brooklyn to us," the seminary said. "It was our honor and blessing to welcome the K-9 Unit to campus, and to pray for and bless them... Our seminary community prays daily in our chapel for all civil authorities and those in public service, including those who protect our country and local communities.

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