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Month: October 2022

Updated Hours for the Our Lady of America Center

October 31, 2022
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The Oratory will be closed Thursday - Sunday of Thanksgiving Weekend

The Center is open on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 11:00 AM for a visit and tour.  We stay open until the tour is over – generally until 1:30-2:00.

We continue to do substantial improvements at the center and we have workers and volunteers around most days from 9:00 to 3:00.   Many days, but not all the Oratory is open during some of these hours.  But it is not certain.   If you are planning a visit at a time other than the posted tours, then call ahead to arrange a time. 

We are closed Sundays.   The grounds are open daily.  

Check our Events page for our schedule. 

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First Annual Pilgrim Walk Beyond Expectations!

October 31, 2022
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When Fr. J Steele, C.S.C. first suggested a pilgrim walk for the 66th Anniversary of the devotion to Our Lady, the Immaculate Virgin, Patroness of America, it seemed fitting and appropriate. But could we get permission to use the new Fishing Line Trail from Kendallville to Rome City?  Would local First Responders provide support?  Would pilgrims come?  The day ended with a resounding Fiat (Yes) to those questions.

Every great journey starts with a single step, and it was no different for this walk.   The 7+ mile walk started at noon on Sunday September 25 with pilgrims assembling at the Oratory of the Holy Family.   Busses then took the walkers to the trail head.  Amazingly 125+ pilgrims had chosen to do the entire 7+ miles.  Over the course of the afternoon, three more groups joined the walk at various points along the trail.  Some remained at the Oratory to pray before the Blessed Sacrament.  When Benediction started at 4:30 the group of pilgrims had swelled to over 300.   Every seat in the Oratory was filled as Our Lord was adored with songs of praise and prayer.   

The pilgrims were under constant threat of rain for the entire afternoon.  Even though areas around the trail got wet, the pilgrims only got an occasional sprinkling like being blessed with Holy Water.  And for the entire 7+ miles a banner of Our Lady, the Immaculate Virgin, Patroness of America lead the pilgrims to the Oratory, where her Son awaited!

After Benediction, the pilgrims were treated to a free cookout compliments of the Our Lady, Patroness of America Center.  Center President, Al Langsenkamp remarked: “Every time we have a larger event, local first responders remark at the joy, peace, and courtesy of the pilgrims.   Once again, it was a great witness to the Peace of Christ which pilgrims exhibit.   On this day, as always, the call of Our Lady of America brings souls to Her Son.”

Fr. J. Steele later in the week remarked he was overwhelmed with joy at the response of the faithful and the praise, prayer and Adoration offered our Lord throughout the day. 

Looking forward to next year! 

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