National Shrine of Our Lady of Snows | Belleville

The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows, located in Belleville, Illinois, is one of the largest outdoor Catholic shrines in North America. It serves as a major spiritual, cultural, and community center attracting pilgrims, visitors, and worshippers from across the United States and beyond.

Historical Background

Origins of Devotion:
The devotion to Our Lady of the Snows originates from a legend dating back to the 4th century in Rome. According to the story, the Virgin Mary appeared in a dream to a wealthy Roman couple and the Pope, instructing them to build a church on a site where snow would fall in the middle of summer. Miraculously, snow fell on the Esquiline Hill on August 5th, which became the site for the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, one of the oldest churches dedicated to Mary.

Founding of the Shrine:
In 1941, Father Paul Schulte, O.M.I., introduced the devotion in the Midwest at St. Henry’s Seminary in Belleville, Illinois. The following decades saw growing interest and pilgrimages to this small shrine.
In 1958, the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate acquired about 80 acres of farmland to create a larger national shrine, which quickly expanded to cover over 200 acres. The Shrine has been steadily developed with churches, gardens, devotional sites, and facilities dedicated to prayer, healing, and community events.

Shrine Grounds and Facilities

Church of Our Lady of the Snows:
The centerpiece is a modern, architecturally impressive church that holds daily Masses and offers the sacrament of confession. The church serves as a spiritual sanctuary for worshippers and pilgrims.

Outdoor Devotional Sites:
The Shrine grounds include several important devotional spots:

Lourdes Grotto: A replica of the famous grotto in Lourdes, France, where the Virgin Mary appeared to Saint Bernadette. It is a focal point for prayer and healing.

Stations of the Cross: A series of outdoor sculptures and stations that allow pilgrims to meditate on the Passion of Christ.

Annunciation Garden: A beautifully landscaped area symbolizing the angel Gabriel’s announcement to Mary.

Additional chapels, shrines, and devotional gardens provide spaces for quiet reflection and prayer.

Outdoor Amphitheater:
This open-air venue hosts liturgical celebrations, concerts, retreats, and special events, often surrounded by nature.

Kings House Retreat & Conference Center:
On-site accommodations offer retreats, spiritual programs, and workshops for individuals and groups seeking deeper spiritual growth.

Visitor Center and Gift Shop:
Visitors can find religious articles, books, and souvenirs related to the shrine’s history and Marian devotion.

Special Events and Programs

Way of Lights:
Held annually during the Christmas season, this is one of the shrine’s most popular events. The grounds are illuminated with over 1.1 million white lights arranged in displays depicting the Nativity and other Christmas scenes. It also features a large LEGO® Nativity display, live performances by local choirs and bands, a wreath auction, and family-friendly activities. This event draws tens of thousands of visitors each year.

Healing and Hope Novena:
A summer event focusing on prayer, healing, and hope for individuals and communities. Pilgrims from all over participate in this powerful novena, with Masses, prayers, and services emphasizing healing.

Daily Worship and Devotions:
The shrine offers daily Mass, confessions, and the rosary. Regular spiritual programming includes retreats, guided prayers, and educational events on Marian devotion.

Spiritual and Cultural Importance

The Shrine serves as a vibrant center for:

Pilgrimage and Prayer:
Providing a peaceful environment for personal and group prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal.

Healing:
Many visitors come seeking physical, emotional, or spiritual healing, encouraged by the shrine’s tranquil atmosphere and dedicated healing ministries.

Community Outreach:
The Shrine engages with local communities and beyond through outreach programs, volunteer opportunities, and educational events.

Practical Visitor Information

Location:
442 South De Mazenod Drive, Belleville, Illinois, approximately 9 miles southeast of St. Louis, Missouri.

Hours:
The Shrine grounds are open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Mass Times:

Weekdays: 7:30 AM and 11:30 AM

Saturdays: 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM

Sundays: 10:00 AM (English) and 2:00 PM (Spanish)

Confession Times:
Saturdays: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Sundays: 9:30 AM – 9:50 AM and 1:30 PM – 1:50 PM

Accessibility:
The Shrine is designed to be accessible to all visitors, including those with mobility challenges.

Nearby Attractions

The Shrine’s proximity to St. Louis makes it convenient for visitors to combine a pilgrimage with visits to the Gateway Arch, museums, and other cultural landmarks.

Visitors can also explore the Belleville Historic District and other local points of interest.

Summary

The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows stands as a profound place of Marian devotion, spiritual healing, and community gathering. It blends natural beauty with sacred spaces, offering a unique and peaceful retreat for prayer, worship, and celebration. Its rich history, rooted in ancient Marian tradition, continues to inspire and draw thousands each year.