About The Oldest Shrine In America
Site of first Catholic Mass in what would become the United States
A shrine is a sacred or holy site dedicated to a specific deity, saint, or revered person, or to an event or concept of religious significance.
The oldest shrine in America is the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche. The Florida Conference Of Catholic Bishops defines it as America's oldest Marian shrine. The National Catholic Register describes it as America's oldest Marian shrine. Wikimedia Common acknowledges it as America's oldest shrine.
The National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche, located at the Nombre de Dios Mission in St. Augustine, Florida, is a site of significant historical and spiritual importance. It is dedicated to Our Lady of La Leche, a title of the Virgin Mary associated with nurturing and breastfeeding, reflecting the deep sense of maternal care and love.
The origins of the shrine date back to the early Spanish colonial period in the 16th century. Spanish settlers brought their Catholic faith to the New World and they built the shrine. The devotion to Our Lady of La Leche began in Spain, where she was venerated as a protector of mothers and children. The site focuses on Mary nursing the infant Jesus.
The National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche was established in 1609, making it the first Marian shrine in the United States. Previously, the first Mass on North American soil was celebrated at the same site on September 8, 1565.
Over the centuries, the Catholic shrine has been a popular site for prayer, pilgrimage, and reflection, especially for those seeking assistance with fertility, pregnancy, and motherhood.
The current structure of the shrine was built in the 20th century and features beautiful artwork and religious iconography. It serves as a place of worship, offering Mass and other religious services, and attracts visitors from around the country.
In 2019 the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche was elevated to National Shrine status by U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. In 2021, the shrine was designated a National Shrine by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, further highlighting its importance in the Catholic faith and its role in American religious history.
Some notable features of the site are mall Spanish colonial chapel the historic cemetery, Great Cross (208 feet tall), Mission grounds, museum, gardens and grounds and Statue of Our Lady of La Leche. Today, it continues to be a place of solace and a testament to the enduring devotion to Our Lady of La Leche. The site still holds regular masses and special services.