This was our 2nd trip to this fantastically beautiful shrine and it was even more awe-inspiring than our first visit. first let me say that there is absolutely no doubt that this is a Catholic shrine. It was financed thru contributions raised by Mother Angelica (of EWTN fame), and has daily masses celebrated. In addition to the church itself (fantastically beautiful) there is a building resembling a castle with a gift shop, offices and meeting rooms. The whole place has a "hushed" feeling about it and you will be greatly moved by your visit.
The Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament is truly spectacular. A little off the beaten path... but so worth it. Irregardless of your personal religious beliefs, I expect you will be able to appreciate the depth of religious feeling that has been poured into this place. Be aware that there are certain areas where a dress code is enforced for the sake of respectfulness.
No sleeveless tops, no shorts (and I don't think capris), skirts above the knee. In other words, I was stopped ASAP. They offer robes to put over your clothes, if you choose to continue the visit on the grounds. Photography is a no-no. Show respect. This amazing place is the vision of Mother Angelica, and is affiliated with the Eternal Word Television Network. No "church money" was used to build this shrine, costs paid for by five generous private donors. There is plenty to see. Or just serene place of peace to quietly pray to our Lord.
This shrine is a place of prayer. Now it has been enhanced by the opening of the John Paul II Eucharistic Center which depicts the history of God's covenant with man throughout history. It is well done and very inspirational for people of all faiths.
All the wonder and awesomeness of a religious community. Nice gift shop. Great displays of religious history. Worth the detour off the main road
Stayed three nights at the St. Benedict's log cabin guest house. The Shrine is in an absolutely beautiful country setting. A great opportunity to experience peace and relaxation. Highly recommend a visit.
The overall beauty of this place will leave you with a true feeling of peace. No matter your religious persuasion, you will appreciate the spirituality that is evident here.
We were so impressed with the beauty and quiet of this place. Our visit was brief and we wish we had thought to bring a lunch so that we could extend our stay in this peaceful place.
No expense was spared in this magnificent shrine. It's situation on hundreds of well- groomed sprawling acreage almost in central rural Alabama about half way between Birmingham and Huntsville. Mother Angelica was instrumental in raising the funds to build this monastery for a mostly cloistered community. There are however, many well- informed guides. The castle-like structure has been constructed with a Euroean influence and built to minimize maintainable. It is spectacular and should appeal to all ages and religions.
A must-visit for Catholics!The entrance alone going to the Shrine is peaceful, serene and beautiful - you just need to stop and look at how the place was designed by Mother Angelica. Marvelous!I recommend the 7am Mass instead of the 10am Mass on the Sunday. The 10am Mass is the conventional Mass for the public, however, the 7am Sunday Mass is for the Nuns, and when you hear them sing during the Mass... ... ...The church architecture is truly magnificent! Visit the Pope John Paul II Eucharistic Center, and take the tour. The rich history, background and videos add to the touch of the place, with the history of Saints and lots of visual aids adorn the place.We attended the procession on June 22 on the Feast of the Corpus Christi, and they had it televised in the EWTN channel as well as in Youtube. The overall experience was amazing.There is even a Lourdes Grotto in the premises, plus a place to meditate on the Stations of the Cross.This place is for Catholics and non-Catholics alike...