“We have given up everything and followed you.”

Whoever wants to follow Jesus, he must leave the things that he has in the world. Of course, these sayings should not be taken for granted. In Jesus' day, the disciples left behind jobs, families, and possessions. Along with the times, there are many choices to express love for God, such as choosing to serve full time by giving life completely to God either as a religious life or as a single lay person. Other expressions that can be done include using materials to help others in need, or by being actively involved in church life, as well as many other expressions.

But the most important of all in life is leaving the things that can lead us to sin. Choose to live in God's truth which is shown daily through attitude and actions, even though they look like simple things. There is no need to be discouraged when we can only do simple things to glorify God. No matter how great it is, if it is done wholeheartedly and lovingly to God, the value is the same before Him. Whatever we have given up as a form of sacrifice to God, give it with joy. God will see a heart that gives and is pleased with what we offer to Him.

Prayer

Almighty God, help us to constantly set our eyes on nothing but you. Enable us to reject the things that lead us to sin, but bring us to a realization that to do your command is what you desire from us. You who live and reign forever and ever. 

Amen.

Fr. Leo Hambur, OSM
Operating Hours: 9 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Upper Gardens admission sold until 7:30 p.m.

Daily Mass

12 noon in The Grotto Plaza
Daily Recitation of the Rosary

Pope Francis invites Catholics and Marian Shrines around the world to dedicate the month of May to a marathon of prayer for an end to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Daily recitation of the Rosary at The Grotto will take place everyday, one half hour before each Mass.
Priest's Office Hours

Monday - Saturday (not available Thursday)
10 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
3 p.m. - 5 p.m.

The Servite Friars gladly await your request for confession, spiritual guidance and blessing of articles. You may also set up an appointment for a blessing with the relic of St. Peregrine. The office is located at the Visitor Center. Masks required.
Gift Shop Hours: 9 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Click on the video and take a moment to relax and experience the serenity of the sanctuary.

Today, relax in the peaceful surroundings of The Grotto Labyrinth.

Join Fr. Vidal Martinez, OSM, Rector of The Grotto, for a daily stroll through the garden.

Each day, enjoy photos and videos taken by Father Vidal, often during hours when the grounds are closed.

Today, even a rainy day is peaceful at The Grotto.

Remembering a year ago:
Bringing The Grotto to You

One year ago, in response to the growing pandemic, we began a series of daily emails called "A Place of Sanctuary: Bringing The Grotto to You." We closed completely a short time later, and that closure lasted for months.

The "Bringing The Grotto to You" series highlighted a feature at (or about) The Grotto each day. The series lasted for 88 days, the length of our closure.

We hope you enjoy this feature, "Looking Back", where we will share a piece of those emails every day for 88 days. Click the link below to view today's feature, which was originally shared this time last year.
The Servite Friars (from left to right)

Father Vidal Martinez, OSM, Rector: [email protected]
Father Ignatius Kissel, OSM: [email protected]
Father Leo Hambur, OSM: [email protected]
Father Edgar Benedi-an, OSM: [email protected]
There is a new time for the weekly Bible Study Livestream with Fr. Edgar Benedi-an, OSM: Saturdays from 9:15-10 a.m. For more information, please click the button below.