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Our Vision:
A Renewed Chapel of St. Mary’s on the Hill

The glass and stone chapel provides an incomparable setting for daily Mass, Reconciliation, Adoration, and private reflection. Nestled amongst the towering poplar and pear trees, the chapel bears witness to the splendor of creation.

​Welcoming millions of pilgrims and visitors since the opening of the chapel in 1976, decades of daily use have taken a toll on our uniquely beautiful chapel. In partnership with our faithful pilgrims, we seek to:
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• Enrich the environment of the chapel to make it more conducive for worship and reflection

• Enhance the experience of pilgrims as they appreciate the connection between the sacred and the natural surroundings, bringing them closer to the Lord

• Engage with pilgrims today and in the future by investing in the restoration of St. Mary’s Chapel to provide an updated holy space

A Chapel of Beauty, Tranquility, and Accessibility
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At different points in our spiritual journey, whether assisting at Mass or simply sitting in quiet reflection, we are moved further along the path to a deeper love of Jesus and Mary, a spiritual experience unmatched and worthy of rejuvenation.

​This refurbishment project will substantially enhance the experience of visitors. Elements of the renewed chapel include:
• New pews, kneelers, and carpeting will ensure physical comfort

• A new altar will be appropriate for the celebration of holy Mass

• Improved lighting will replace the functional lighting and fixtures

• A new air conditioning and heating system will enhance focus and contemplation
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• Renovations to make the chapel more accessible for all

​A Remodeled Sacristy and New Confessionals
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Adjacent to the chapel sits the stone sacristy and confessional. In this modest space, the Shrine’s priests prepare for the liturgy and vestments are stored. Renovations will re-imagine the interior to provide our chaplains with a proper place to prepare for the celebration of Mass. Confessionals will be added alongside the chapel.

The Role of Philanthropy in Sustaining the Shrine

Faith-filled philanthropic support has always been essential to the existence of the National Shrine Grotto. Gifts from visitors, pilgrims, and longstanding friends comprise the majority of our annual operating budget and ensure that hundreds of thousands of pilgrims can continue to experience the grace of Mary’s Mountain.

In an era of increasing dissonance in our culture and our world, the need for a place of solace and spiritual enrichment is clear. This campaign to refurbish the Glass Chapel answers that need. Your financial contribution will ensure that this special place of renewal and beauty thrives in the decades to come.

Our goal is to raise the support needed—$1.3 million to allow us to begin renovations as soon as possible. The chapel campaign is part of a comprehensive plan for the Shrine, with subsequent enhancements envisioned for the Grotto amphitheater, pathways, and parking area.

Please Join Us
Please give to enrich and preserve this important place of Catholic heritage in the world--
and to enable others to receive the grace and peace of Christ and His Mother on this holy ground.
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Contact Julie Smith, Philanthropy Manager for the National Shrine Grotto, at 301-447-5484 or [email protected]

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