Our Lady of Lourdes Parish has on its grounds a beautiful Grotto which was built in 1987. The project to erect the Grotto was sponsored by the Catholic Women’s League under the direction of the then Chairperson, 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 Flaven. A large pair of wooden & chain Rosary beads was placed on the site by another parishioner, Mr. Adolphe Lainey. The Rosary has been draped over the rock face and is a very beautiful addition. The Grotto property is surrounded by 80 brick decorative posts, each donated by a parishioner or community group “In Memoriam.” A “Memory Walk” allows visitors to stroll around the grounds and view the memory plaques attached to the posts. These posts were also constructed gratis by Mr. Michael Flaven, Ben Sheppard and Alf Smith.

In 2008, the Stations of the Cross were constructed on the grounds surrounding the Grotto and are another beautiful addition to the site. Walkways and benches allow visitors to visit the Stations and relax in comfort. Masses and evening prayers have been celebrated at the Grotto site over the Summer months.

For several years now a strong Grotto Committee has been in place and, through a volunteer labour force and donations from parishioners, the site has been maintained and continues to be improved upon. 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 comfort and solace.

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 our Parish and area.