Taking a road trip to a Catholic shrine or place of pilgrimage is a wonderful way to encounter Christ in a new environment. Also a great way to model the faith to our children, visiting shrines can have some enjoyable and entertaining elements to them.
The Catholic Travel Guide lists shrines by state and is a helpful reference while on vacation. It is also useful when researching places for taking road trips in one’s own county or state. Another great resource in book form is Catholic Shrines and Places of Pilgrimage in the United States, Jubilee Edition.
What to Do on a Holy Road Trip
Usually dedicated to a particular saint or devotion, road trips to shrines are educational and historical. At shrines one will find the availability of holy mass in a beautiful and unique setting. Opportunities to attend the Sacrament of Reconciliation are often daily as well. Most shrines are noted for their fantastic religious gift stores on site. These stores house everything from bibles, rosary beads, prayer cards, religious books and jewelry to statues and music cd’s.
Even if one prefers to stay outdoors, many shrines still have much to offer. Outdoor rosary walks and gardens, Stations of the Cross and spectacular Christmas light displays adorn the grounds of many of our nation’s shrines.
The next time you’re on vacation—or ready to explore in your own neck of the woods—check out places of pilgrimage near you. Enjoy a fun filled day with your family and savor some spiritual rest, nourishment and replenishment. You will find yourself looking forward to your next holy road trip.
