Blessed are you, O God, Creator of the universe, who has made all things good

and given the earth for us to cultivate.

Grant that we may always use created things gratefully and share your gift with those in need, out of love of Christ of Lord, who lives and reigns with you for ever and ever.

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: Mercedes Garcia

We felt very humbled by our visit to The Grotto.

We enjoyed the experience of being amongst the gardens and other pilgrims, there for a morning retreat ... it was marvelous!

Spending a few hours quietly absorbing faith and love of God, the sights and sounds of nature can help remind us that we are part of the world around us and depend on it, as a child depends on its mother.

Below: The sights of nature, taken in the Peace Garden.

Below: The sounds of nature, recorded in the Upper Gardens.

Below: Mary holding the child Jesus, from the Via Matris in the Upper Gardens.

Send Us Your Stories

We would love to hear from you and 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?

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

We will be sharing stories all month long. Thank you.