Located on the outskirts of Pacific MO is the Black Madonna Shrine and Grottos. A peaceful place for reflection and prayer. Built in the late 1930’s by a Polish Monk the sprawling grounds, statues and grottos are a testament to dedication and faith. What started out as a forest would be transformed into a chapel at first. Then over the years - created from locally mined stone without the use of power tools-the grottos were built. Brother Bronislaus incorporated costume jewelry and sea shells that were donated by visitors and members of foreign missions.
While visiting we were struck by the intricacies of the grottos. The use of the stones and other elements.
Some of the statues are worn by time and weather, but their power and significance remains.
When visiting be sure to wear comfortable shoes because even though there are pathways if you want to get near some of the grottos to see the statues up close you will have to walk on unpaved areas. The Black Madonna Shrine is essentially not wheel chair accessible although there is a flat area that leads into the chapel.
There is also a museum and a gift shop within the chapel. The gift shop offers a free brochure.
If you are looking for a peaceful place of respite or wish to light a candle in the chapel or if you are just looking for new place to walk then a trip to the Black Madonna Shrine might be the perfect way to spend a few hours.
More information about the Shrine can be found on their website
https://theblackmadonnashrine.org
Comments