To grow in their faith, Christians might make a pilgrimage: a journey to a place of historical or spiritual significance. It’s one thing to learn about such places from home. But it’s a completely different experience to actually visit such important sites. A pilgrimage isn’t a regular trip or vacation, but an opportunity to grow in faith, seek inspiration and listen for God.
The Martyr’s Shrine in Midland honours the eight Jesuit saints who lived, worked and died in Ontario over 350 years ago. They came from France intent on giving their lives to share the Good News and give glory to God. They built the first Church in Ontario and their message and example led to the conversion of many of the Hurons – the indigenous people of the area. Eventually, these missionaries would be called to give up their very lives for their faith.
On Saturday, September 10th, the people of St. Joseph Church are invited to make a parish pilgrimage to the Martyr’s Shrine. Here’s the plan for the day:
- 11:30am – Gather for a picnic style lunch see location here.
- 12:30pm – Stations of the Cross
- 1:30pm – Time to explore the shrine and grounds or visit the historic home of the martyrs, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons
- 4:30pm – Rosary
- 5:00pm – Mass
- 6:00pm – Depart for dinner and home
Pilgrims, those joining this journey, will arrange their own transportation to the shrine and bring a picnic lunch with them. Food is available on-site from ‘The Big Canoe’ food truck for a fee.
At the shrine, pilgrims will be able to offer prayers and worship individually and with others of our parish, reflect on the acts of the martyrs and see their relics, and visit a reconstruction of the first European settlement, where the French and Wendat nations first interacted.
The cost is just $10 per person and those under 12 years of age are free. The fee includes parking, access to the shrine and the Sainte-Marie among the Hurons centre. Paying by cash is definitely the best choice.
Throughout the day, there will be opportunity to explore and pray, visit the Saint-Marie among the Hurons village and the gift shop, to make a Confession and to celebrate as a group of pilgrims from our parish.