As a Marian Devotee myself, it is always exciting to visit Catholic Churches that are dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Since she is our Mother, she will bring us closer to her Son making the sites even more special. Regardless of the city or state you are traveling in, visiting just one Marian Shrine should be on your bucket list. In this blog post, we will list down the Marian Shrines in Wisconsin that you should check out! These holy places are significant to the heritage of the state.
Wisconsin is not just popular for being America’s Dairyland. It is also known as home to the historic Marian Shrines, each with its own story and significance.
Here are some of the Marian Shrines in Wisconsin you should visit.
The National Shrine of Our Lady of Good Help
When visiting the Marian Shrines in Wisconsin, you should not miss the National Shrine of Our Lady of Good Help. Located in Champion, this is the only officially recognized Marian apparition site in the United States. The apparition happened in 1859 to a young Belgian-born immigrant named Adele Brise. She reported receiving a vision of the Virgin Mary, who gave her a message to teach the children in the area about their Catholic faith.
The Shrine houses a Chapel marking the spot of the Apparition. Additionally, it is made up of wood that can accommodate fifty (50) faithful.
As of this day, the chapel at the site remains a popular pilgrimage destination not only in Wisconsin but in the USA.
For an easy trip, they organize the pilgrimage in two (2), Groups and Individuals. Schedule yours through these links:
For updates and schedules, you can check their website here.
Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe
If you are a devotee of Our Lady of Guadalupe, you must check this Shrine in La Crosse. As the name of the Shrines suggests, its patroness is Our Lady of Guadalupe. Located on a hill overlooking the city, the shrine features the Cruciform Domical Church (Shrine Church), Pilgrimage Center composed of a Cafe’, Gift Shop and Bookstore, Devotional Areas namely St. Kateri Tekakwitha, St. Joseph, Way of the Cross, Memorial to the Unborn, and Rosary Walk. Additionally, it is a home for different religious artifacts and artworks.
To organize your pilgrimage, you can plan here.
For updates and schedules, you can check their website here.
The National Shrine of Mary, Help of Christians
Known as Holy Hill, this beautiful shrine is located on a hilltop in Hubertus Wisconsin overlooking the surrounding countryside. It features a breathtaking Basilica renowned for its stained glass window and the tower that offers a scenic view. There are also outdoor Stations of the Cross, a bookstore, a gift shop and cafe’ and hiking trails. Since it’s on top of the hill, elevators are available perfect for persons with disabilities. A simple tip, visit the Shrine in the fall and be in awe of its color! Truly, an Instagram worthy.
For updates and schedules, you can check their Facebook here.
Archdiocesan Marian Shrine
This Marian Shrine’s original name was the National Shrine to Our Lady of Fatima and Milwaukee Fatima Shrine. Located in Milwaukee, it is in a residential area. The Shrine has an indoor chapel which is built out of stone. Nestled in a local neighborhood, the Shrine holds the statues of Mary appearing to the Three (3) children in Fatima, Sts. Francisco and Jacinta and Lucia. It also has depictions of fifteen (15) mysteries of the Rosary which makes it a great place to pray. Moreover, the place is famous for wedding photography. Mass and Rosary praying take place at this Shrine on a regular basis. Truly, one of the most majestic Catholic Churches in Milwaukee.
For updates and schedules, you can check their Facebook here.
Conclusion
There you have the Marian Shrines you should visit in Wisconsin! These Shrines play important role in the state’s rich heritage. With thousands of Catholics visiting, these holy destinations are living testaments of a strong Catholic community in Wisconsin.
Although each Shrine possesses unique physical qualities, they share the same goal and that is to help the faithful get closer to God.
Catholics must visit at least one of these shrines.