Even if you don't have religious beliefs, a visit to Martyrs' Shrine is a must when you are in the Midland/Penetanguishene area. It is a place of beauty, peace and serenity. Take some time to stroll the extensive grounds and admire the monuments to saints who in some cases made grave sacrifices for their faith. The Stations of the Cross are simply magnificent. Pope John Paul ll celebrated mass here during his visit in 1984 and the 30th anniversary of that event will be held on September 6th of this year.
There is something truly peaceful and calming about this church. Even if you are not at all religious, it is truly worth a visit. The architecture is beautiful, and the inner sanctions of the church are a sight to behold. The statues are beautiful both inside and on the grounds. Visiting the grounds and the Stations of The Cross, and The Our Lady of Fatima statue displays are highly recommended. This church is as breathtaking as those found in Europe. A must see!!
Beautiful historic shrine in a garden-like setting. We enjoyed walking the grounds as well a touring the church itself.
we stayed for the service and appreciated the grad setting of the past. Great stain glassed windows and artifacts from early times
Peace... whether taking in one of the many different services that's offered, or walking the beautiful grounds. Many little trinkets to purchase as reminders, or enjoy a simple lunch. The grounds offer much room for picnics for family or private time.
As a practicing Catholic, I've always wanted to visit this shrine. Church is beautiful. Lovely stained glass windows. Being able to honor the Canadian martyrs was such a blessing. However, there's a $5 pp charge which I found strange. I've never been to a shrine where you couldn't visit without paying a fee. The grounds are beautiful, but I was not aware that there are memorials for folks from all over the world, not just the Canadian martyrs. Very hilly. I was not aware that there are parking areas on the top of the hill. Wear good walking shoes. The relics are in the side chapels of the main chapel. It's easy to miss if there's a mass or other service going on. It's ok to walk around to see them if there's a service taking place.
The grounds and gardens are beautiful. A lovely view of the surrounding area can be seen from many vantage points. The church is beautiful inside and out. We went inside and caught the last 15 mins of the Sunday service.
The park is magnificent! A very nice church! The guide is a real professional. I adored the tour! Worth visiting!
Went to visit while in Midland. Was expecting an older church, however, it is newer, but grand none the less. I was surprised at how busy the service was mid-week in the afternoon. Nice to see full pews. The grounds are beautiful toWalk through or picnic afterwards. Enjoyed the Saints and the children I was with learned a great deal and were engaged. The tower is worth the climb as the bay view is worth it.Gift shop had lots if items to choose from, especially if you were looking for something specific. Lots of gift ideas as well. The bathrooms were extremely clean and was impressed how clean they were for being outdoors and a bit older.
Church is pretty new, the grounds are interesting to a point.You can see the bay from the top of a tower that is worth the walk up