Retired Marine Colonel and Executive Director of The Grotto, Christopher E. Blanchard, lights votive candles and offers prayers at the shrine, as he does every year for Veterans' Day. To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the Marine Corps, Colonel Blanchard wore his uniform this year.
Veteran's Day Hours
Grounds and Gardens : 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Upper Gardens admission sold until 4:30 p.m.
Gift Shop: 9 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Recitation of the Rosary
11:30 a.m.
Chapel of Mary
Daily Mass
12 noon
Chapel of Mary
Priest Office Hours & Sacrament of Reconciliation
10-11:45 a.m.
3 - 5 p.m.
A priest is available during office hours for the blessing of items, spiritual direction, and confession. The office is located next to The Grotto Interpretive Center.
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the selfless service and sacrifice of our veterans. Bless them abundantly for their courage and dedication. May Your grace and peace be upon them and their families. Grant them strength and comfort, and may they always feel our gratitude and support.
Today, as all days, we pray for those who have given their lives in service to our country; may they rest in Your eternal peace. Guide us to honor their legacy by striving for peace and justice in our world.
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Honoring our veterans ...
Festival Tickets Now on Sale
Tickets are now available for The Grotto's Christmas Festival of Lights, which opens Friday, Nov. 28.
