OUR LADY OF LOURDES GROTTO
Our Lady of Lourdes Parish has on its grounds a beautiful Grotto which was first begun in 1987. The project to erect the Grotto was sponsored by the Catholic Women's League under the direction of the then President, Mrs. Geraldine Collier. While the site itself is a natural rock formation, the stonework which houses the statue of "Our Lady of Lourdes" was constructed gratis by a local mason, Mr. Michael Flavin.
A few years after the initial construction of the site, a Grotto Committee of local volunteers was formed to continue with the beautification of the site. A large pair of rosary beads was custom made by another parishioner, Mr. Adolphe Lainey and placed on the site. The rosary has been placed over the rock face and is a beautiful addition. A small waterfal cascades down the rock face between the Grotto and the beads with an almost spiritual tranquility. The Grotto property is now surrounded by 87 decorative posts, each donated by an individual or organization "In Memoriam." A Memory Walk allows visitors to stroll the grounds and view the "In Memoriam" plaques attached to the posts, a piece of history in itself. These posts were also constructed gratis by Mr. Michael Flavin, Ben Sheppard, Alf Smith and Monte Drake.
In 2008, the Stations of the Cross were constructed on the grounds surrounding the Grotto. Walkways and benches allow visitors to visit the Stations and relax in comfort. Fresh flowers and shrubs abound everywhere and recently a row of trees has been planted along the Memory Walk. This past Summer the Committee erected a large statue of Christ the Redeemer to complete the experience. The Grotto Committee are on the grounds daily over the Summer months to ensure that visitors to the site have the ultimate experience.
Over the years the Parish and its people have maintained a strong devotion to Our Lady of Lourdes. The Grotto is testimony to this devotion and the site has become a place of solace and comfort. With the support of parishioners and organizations alike, we anticipate that the site will continue to grow as a place of devotion and also become a major tourist attraction for the Parish and area.
GROTTO COMMITTEE
Sylvia Smith (Chair) Cynthia Skinner
Gail Skinner Francie LeCointre
Alf Smith Ben Sheppard
Henry Gaudon Monte Drake
SUMMER SCHEDULE FOR STATIONS OF THE CROSS (2012)
The Catholic Women's League leads the Stations of the Cross on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 PM on site during the month of August. Parishioners and visitors alike are most welcome to participate. Specific dates will be published in advance.
