WE BEGIN A NEW SEASON!

This past weekend we began our 86th season as a Shrine Church. Together with almost 700 people in attendance, we gathered at the 10:30 mass. Joining us were the three mayors from our neighbouring communities, His worship Gordon McKay from the Town of Midland, Ray Millar, Township of Tiny and Scott Warnock Township of Tay. Father Bernie Carroll the Director of Martyrs Shrine, offered a blessing on all gathered but especially the shrine staff, who were also present. He spoke of the new initiatives we have for this season; blessings with the relics after every mass; processions to the graves and invited all to take advantage of one of guided tours and visit our new museum displays. We look forward to a great season full of Gods blessings and graces.

Protect Martyrs' Shrine and Ste-Marie among the Hurons

Dear Friends and Supporters,

Thank you for your generous, thoughtful and enthusiastic support in expressing concern to the Mayor and Council of the Town of Midland regarding the proposed Waste Recycling facility at 1001 Franke Kindred Road. Sixty or so "walkers", representing more than 5,500 of you, delivered your letters to the Mayor last Wednesday, November 30.

Your time and commitment to this cause is truly overwhelming. Rarely, have so many people rallied to an issue so quickly and passionately.

We hope and pray that your tremendous outpouring of concern to protect our precious historical, cultural and religious heritage at Ste. Marie Among the Hurons and the Martyrs' Shrine will help to bring a favourable resolution to this issue for everyone involved.

With profound gratitude,

Bernard Carroll, S.J.

Director of Martyrs' Shrine

http://www.facebook.com/ProtectMartyrsShrine

In Ontario, Canada, just east of Midland, on Highway 12, twin spires rising above the treeline welcome visitors to historic Martyrs' Shrine. The Shrine honours the eight Jesuit saints who lived, worked and died here some 380 years ago. The grounds, including the famous Shrine Church and 75 pleasantly landscaped acres, invite you into prayer and tranquility. Come and learn about the Jesuit missionaries, Jean de Brébeuf, Gabriel Lalemant, and their companions who were responsible for bringing Christianity to Canada over 380 years ago!

Hours of Operation: The Shrine is open from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily. For the map directions to the Martyrs' Shrine please go to our "Contact Us" page.

Facilities: The Shrine Church, The Martyrs' Hall, Lookout, Picnic Tables, Gardens, Walkways, Restrooms, Religious Artcle and Souvenir Shop and Cafeteria. The Shrine Cafeteria is available for your group if they would like a served lunch or supper. All served meals must be pre-booked with the Shrine office.

The Lalande Hostel: is now open. This hostel is set up for groups of visitors who do not mind the very simple living arrangement that the hostel affords. Each room consists of two sets of bunkbeds, sheets, blanket and pillow are provided. The per diem for the hostel is $30 per person per night. To see what the hostel facility is like please click on the Photo Albums link to the left and find the album named Lalande Youth Hostel.

Before you visit the Shrine: Be sure to visit the Pilgrimage link to the left when you plan your visit. Most week days are quiet with the occasional school group at the Shrine. Many week ends are very busy with large pilgrimage groups which means very large crowds. Therefore, if you prefer a quiet experience of the Shrine be sure to plan your visit using the pilgrimage schedule to the left.

PLEASE NOTE:
The Shrine church and facilities are wheelchair accessible. We have a number of wheelchairs on site for those who may need them. However, also note that the grounds are hilly and pilgrims who are infirm or use wheelchairs will still need assistance in order to get around.

We do our best to keep the Shrine grounds visitor friendly. We would ask that you refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages on the site and please do not bring your pets when visiting the Shrine.

Gate Charges:
Individual and group fees are needed to maintain the Shrine Church, grounds, facilities parking lots and driveways. Fees are as follows:

• $4.00 - Day Pass per person (10 years old and over).
• $35.00 - Season Pass (A family of four).
• $60.00 - Bus Day Pass (with passengers).
• $6.00 per student - The "Walk Where They Walked" half day educational program.