Today, our little family took a day trip up to Emmitsburg, Maryland. There are several cool things in Emmitsburg, particularly if you share the same faith as we do.
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First, we traveled to the Grotto, which is a replica of the one at Lourdes. We arrived a few minutes too late to attend the noon mass, but when we reached the grotto itself, we happened upon a group being led in the rosary by a priest. So, we joined in (they'd just begun - score!). Afterward, it was incredibly crowded, so we didn't actually get inside the grotto, but we prayed there and marveled at thinking of how many "pilgrims" have come to this holy place on a mountain for the past two hundred years.
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The grounds surrounding the grotto are incredible, with beautiful statues and a path with all 20 Mysteries of the Rosary done in mosaic. It is clear the place is well-loved and cared-for, in spite of the traffic.
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After quite a hike to the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, we enjoyed some time in quiet prayer out of the cold damp air. As we ascended the "mountain", we gazed up at the towering golden statue of the mother of our Lord. (At least that is what I told myself as I was overheating from the hundreds of steps to get back to our car.)
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I'd packed a picnic lunch and though it was quite chilly, we enjoyed the shade behind Mother Seton's Basilica and Museum. In the museum, they had a movie presentation about Elizabeth Ann's life and works. We enjoyed the beautiful Basilica and more time in quiet prayer.
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Many pieces of our faith in America sprang forth from that peaceful valley. We'd love to take another trip to see all the things we didn't squeeze in this afternoon. It was a wonderful way to spend a Saturday.
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Now, we're off to dinner with friends. May you have a blessed weekend and a wonderful mini-Easter!
