The State of Ohio is home to historic Catholic Churches including Monasteries, Cathedrals, Shrines, Basilicas, and other spiritual sites. Although the majority of its population is non-Catholic, the presence of the Church through its pilgrimage sites remains strong. In this blog post, we will list down the must-visit Marian Shrines in Ohio. These religious destinations will surely touch your soul, helping you to grow in Faith.
Aside from its inventions such as the phonograph and Superman, Ohio is also popular because of its gorgeous Catholic Shrines specifically Marian Shrines!
Here are the Marian Shrines to visit in Ohio.
The Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation Shrine
Located in the small town of Carey in northwest Ohio, the Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation is a minor basilica under the operation of Conventual Franciscan Friars. Finished in 1924, the Byzantine-style Basilica is a favorite pilgrimage site annually on the Feast of the Assumption. It houses historic architectural features. It has the main Church building covered by a dome with a statue of Our Lady of Consolation. There is also an outdoor Shrine Park which is a site for Stations of the Cross. The park is the destination for the procession from the Basilica on the Feast of the Assumption attended by Catholics primarily from the Middle East. In addition, the Basilica includes a museum, gift shop, and even Cafeteria. Truly, must-visit Marian Shrine in Ohio!
For schedules and updates, you can check their website here.
Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon
If you want to experience the other rites of the Catholic Church, this Marian Shrine is the perfect place. The Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon just like the Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation is a minor basilica but of the Maronite Catholic Church. Located in North Jackson, the Shrine is a replica of the one in Harissa, Lebanon. It consists of a Shrine Church and a Chapel that have statues, icons, and relics. There are also outdoor Stations of the Cross and a gift shop that offers a huge selection of religious items. The Shrine offers both individual and group pilgrimages. Experience the Maronite Divine Liturgy, visit this holy destination.
For schedules and updates, you can check their website here.
Our Lady, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Cathedral
Known as the Rosary Cathedral in Toledo, Our Lady, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Cathedral was constructed in a Spanish Plateresque style. This Cathedral, located in the Old West End of Toledo in Ohio, is one of the most stunning Cathedrals you’d see. The interior is just exquisite. From its mosaic walls to its black Marquina Florido marble main Altar, everything is heavenly! It also shelters four (4) manual Ernest M. Skinner pipe organs considered its musical treasure. Just like the other Shrines above, the Rosary Cathedral has a gift shop located in the Parish offices where you can buy souvenirs for your visit. If you like taking pictures of a Church. this Cathedral should be on the top of your subjects.
For schedules and updates, you can check their website here.
National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes
Located in Euclid, Ohio, the National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes is under the care of the Sisters of the Most Holy Trinity. It houses the replica of the original Shrine in Lourdes in France, which is made up of Italian marble. It also has a grotto in which the water flows over a piece of stone that is from the original shrine. The holy ground and the chapel are peaceful settings to meditate one of the reasons the faithful from different parts of the world take a pilgrim visit here. There is also a gift shop that offers a wide variety of religious items such as Rosaries, Scapulars, Jewelries, and Veils. If you visit Ohio, attend the Mass outdoor for all new holy encounter.
For schedules and updates, you can check their website here.
Shrine of Our Lady Comforter of the Afflicted
The Shrine of Our Lady Comforter of the Afflicted located on a wooded 32-acre plot of land in Youngstown, Ohio was established in 1957 by the Franciscan Friars. Outside, the Shrine and Monument of the Unborn is situated. There are also statues of Our Lady of Fatima and St. Stephen the King. Pilgrims will also encounter the iron curtains Stations of the cross depicting the Catholic Church’s struggle under communism. Inside, you can see the replica of the Madonna of Csiksomlyo originally from Transylvania, Romania. There are also the statues of Our Lady of Fatima, St. Padre Pio, and St. Therese of Lisieux and the image of Divine Mercy. The Shrine also has a gift shop where you can purchase religious items. To add, they also offer their space for retreats or any other gatherings. One of the Sacred places to visit in Ohio!
For schedules and updates, you can check their website here.
Sorrowful Mother Shrine
One of the religious landmarks in Northern Ohio, Sorrowful Mother Shrine is the oldest pilgrimage site dedicated to the Virgin Mary in the Midwest. Located in Bellevue in Ohio, the Shrine has two (2) Chapels. The Sorrowful Mother Shrine Chapel and the Pieta Outdoor Chapel. The first Chapel has stained galls windows housing the paintings of the Seven Sorrows of Mary and the Sorrowful Mother Statue. The other Chapel is set outdoors to accommodate the increasing number of pilgrims. There is a Holy Mass during Fall, Summer, and Spring months. Aside from the Chapels, the Shrine also offers grottos. There are forty-one (41) grottos and sculptures in total. Each of these is dedicated to a Saint or Christ’s or Virgin Mary’s life. Annually, pilgrims do processions to honor their patron saints. You can also buy religious goods at their gift shop. Perfect place to pray and reflect.
For schedules and updates, you can check their website here.
Conclusion
There you have the must-visit Marian shrines in Ohio.
These holy sites will shut your senses from the world, setting your eyes on God and His mother, and renewing your faith. Its serene ambiance and aesthetic architecture will definitely touch your spirit.
For Marian Shrines in Wisconsin, visit here.