Gracious God,

You call us to use our time, gifts, skills and experience for the betterment of our community and our world.

Today I offer myself to you and your service. Help me to discern where and how to serve.

I ask that you grow my generosity, my faithfulness, and open my mind to new opportunities.

May interactions with me draw others closer to you.

Amen.

Your Sanctuary, Your Stories

As we continue the celebration of our Centennial Anniversary, we hope you will enjoy this month's feature, "Your Sanctuary, Your Stories".

We look forward to sharing YOUR stories about what The Grotto means to you. Every day this month, check this space and discover how the sanctuary has brought peace and joy to so many.

Today: Vinci Halbrook-Paterson

When did you first come to The Grotto?

The first time I came to the Grotto was September 1981. I came with members of my parish.

What was your first impression?

I was amazed at the tall trees. I thought we were pulling into a forested area. The outdoor Mass was beautiful!! The trees and plants, a gentle breeze, birds chirping - an outdoor sanctuary! It was so peaceful and prayerful.

What is your favorite place at The Grotto?

There are so many favorite spots: St. Joseph’s Grove, the gardens near the Peace Pole. The city seems a million miles away. The peace of The Grotto really sinks in when you are in the Upper Gardens. I love walking the Mysteries of the Rosary next to the ponds ... to hear the trickling creek and the little water fall reminds me of the waters of baptism.

Do you have any special memories?

I remember my sister bringing her 84-year-old mother-in-law, Mary, to the Grotto in 2021. I gave them a tour. It is wonderful to see people’s faces as they experience The Grotto for the first time: The Chapel, and then the Meditation Chapel, Via Matris, the Marian Shrines. And in the midst of all of it is a deep sense of connection to God, to creation, and to the Spirit of Peace.

Have you been to the Christmas Festival of Lights?

I worked at the Festival of Lights for four years. Each year I stumbled onto at least three or four marriage proposals. It's so cool that some families have been volunteering annually for years, and some amazing choirs perform every year.

What do you love most about The Grotto?

I love how close it is to the city, but you feel miles away from the noise and burdens of life when you are there.

Below: Photos of some of the places at The Grotto that Vinci mentioned.

Above: St. Joseph's Grove

Above: Mysteries of the Rosary

Above: The Peace Pole

Above: A waterfall in the Peace Garden

Above: The Chapel of Mary

Above: The Meditation Chapel

Above: The Via Matris

Above: The Marian Shrine path

Send Us Your Stories

We would love to share YOUR story. What does The Grotto mean to you? When did you first visit? What is your favorite place? What would you like us to know?

Please email jtokito@thegrotto.org for more information or to share your story.

We will be sharing your stories all month long. Thank you for being a part of The Grotto community.