National Shrine of Mary
The National Shrine of Mary is also known as the Mothers' Shrine. It is a dedication to mother Mary, "the creator of all" and also, to all the mothers on earth. Declared a National shrine in 2003, it is the sixteenth national shrine in United Sates and the only recognized shrine in Missouri. The shrine features an astounding 14 feet stainless steel sculpture of Mother Mary. Situated on the 176 Marian Drive, Missouri, the shrine is a major attraction for worshippers and tourists from all around the globe who come along in the praise of Mary at this peaceful place.
The sculpture stands in an open air coliseum with fountains around it. In mid 1980's when the St. Patrick's church was overflowing with the summer crowd, Father Fred J. Barnett, decided to build this outdoor shrine instead of expanding the church. The mission of this shrine is to promote the admiration of motherhood, the richness of family and the value of life. The major drawing force of the shrine is the Mother's Wall of life. A gigantic black granite wall which surrounds the fountains of the upper pool, it has the names of mothers from various places carved beautifully on its surface. The only criterion for a name is to be a mother. The wall does not distinguish on the basis of caste, colour, religious tie-ups or belonging. Having had its first engraving on April 1st 1999, the wall has ever since created history. With 37 states and 13 countries on it, the wall makes the shrine a very important recognition as a pride of the land.
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The National Shrine of Mary at the Lake of the Ozarks
The natural beauty of Missouri is known all over. While, spring makes the shrine bright, exuberant and opulent in colors, the winters bring along their own snowy, impeccable and frosty charm. One side of the revolving sculpture has fountains and the other side has a fall which mixed up with everything, creates a supreme amiable environment. The entire area is handicap supportive and that makes a huge difference. In the shadow of the mammoth sculpture with those beautiful eyes, thousands of visitors throng for prayers. At night, the perfect lighting of the shrine takes you into a completely different world.
Strolling through the avenue of flags is a different experience in itself. It consists of the flags of different countries donated by church members or visitors in the honor of the shrine. Thousands of flowers, cool water in the fountains, a walk on the prayer path teamed up with the music of the Carillion bells is nothing less than paradise. You can be here to imbibe the placidity of this multifaceted beauty.
