sign in sign up
<<
Home , Alberto da Bergamo, Giovanni Bonzano, National shrine

’ MVolume 80, No.A 2 RY S SHRINFall/WinterE 2019

Our Mother of Africa » ’s Message Mary’s By Reverend Monsignor Walter R. Rossi, J.C.L. Bachrach

ince June of 2018, the Catholic and makes intercession” for each of us (Homily, Church in the United States has been June 1, 2019). experiencing a great deal of unrest When confronted by a medical crisis, we seek because of the abuse crises. help at a hospital. So too, when confronted SThe Church has been deeply wounded. Her by a spiritual crisis or when tragedy strikes, we parishioners, and especially the victims of abuse seek help at a church. In prayer we find our have been traumatized. The investigations of strength and our solace, confident in God’s the Attorneys General across the country, the help. One need only recall the terrorist attacks Pennsylvania Grand Jury report, new revelations on September 11, 2001, or the senseless acts of of abuse, and the personal and professional violence in churches, synagogues, mosques, and failures on the part of some in leadership, have schools. In these incomprehensible moments caused some people to stop going to church. of grief and tragedy, prayer is our constant, our Others have discontinued their financial buckler and shield, our sure foundation. support. We, the Church, must acknowledge On September 23, 2020, we will mark the and address the suffering of the victims as well centenary of the placing of the foundation as our own pain with the care and comfort stone of the National Shrine. Located in the found only in Jesus. We seek justice; we pray Crypt Church, in what is now the Oratory for healing. of Our Lady of , this stone was set Thankfully, in the midst of this great darkness, with great solemnity on September 23, 1920, there is light. It is seen every day in those by Cardinal James Gibbons of . (At faithful members of the Church who continue that time, Washington, D.C. belonged to the to place their faith in the grace of God as Archdiocese of Baltimore.) experienced in the sacraments. The simple The sermon on that day was given by the fact that Mass attendance at Mary’s Shrine Most Reverend John T. McNicholas, O.P., of has not diminished over the past year is a Duluth, a former student of the founder of the clear testimony that our faith is our strength. National Shrine, Bishop Thomas Shahan, who As Archbishop Wilton Gregory said in his was known for his commanding influence and homily during his installation Mass here at the gift of oratory. Following the placement and National Shrine, “our shame and our sorrow, blessing of the stone, Bishop McNicholas spoke do not define us.” of the need for devotion to the Blessed Visitors and pilgrims to Mary’s Shrine have Mary: “The nations need Mary Immaculate been truly wonderful, offering words of support because they need Christ, and it is through and the promise of prayer. The many decades Mary that Christ can most surely be brought of horrific deeds and actions will take many back to them. The entire human race was years to be reconciled and healed. Please keep hopelessly beyond the power of restoration storming heaven with your prayers! when Christ came upon earth. No human agency could have reconstructed society … Our Holy Father, Francis, observes, Through Christ, and only through Him, was “ are like ‘sacraments’ of a Church that man in the first instance restored. Through is a field hospital” … where God’s faithful Christ alone can all society in every age again people, who “in the midst of tribulation,” ... be restored.” “continue to seek the source of living water that renews our hope.” Within the sanctuaries “O Mary, Our Blessed Mother, the family of of Marian shrines, “we come to the feet of our nations needs thy Divine Son.” Mother ... to let her gaze upon us ... bringing One hundred years later, the words of Bishop us to Jesus, who is the Way, the Truth and the McNicholas still ring true. Amid all of the Life (John 14:6).” Here at the National Shrine, brokenness we experience as a Church and as at every shrine, our Lady “watches over us as a society, it is only the Lord Jesus who can

Mary’s Shrine v Fall/Winter 2019 restore all. But we, the members of His body, good and right” (Address, June 11, 2019). must also take the necessary steps to safeguard The good works of prayer, devotion, pilgrimage, all members of the Church, especially the the celebration of the Sacraments of Eucharist most vulnerable. Among these steps we are “to and Reconciliation, together with our ministry come to the feet of our Mother” seeking her to all who come to us in need, spiritual as intercession before the Lord. It is in the power well as physical, have been the center of our of our united prayer that we can conquer the existence at Mary’s Shrine. For the last ninety- evil that surrounds us. nine years, the National Shrine has been a place of prayer, a haven of hope. In his address to the bishops of the United States during their June assembly, the Apostolic As we look toward our centenary celebration in to the United States, Archbishop 2020, we pledge to continue our service to God’s Christophe Pierre, advised, “we cannot afford people. With the help of Mary Immaculate, our to lose our many important initiatives and good patroness, we pledge to “continue to seek the works in the long, dark shadow cast by our source of living water that renews our hope,” as problems. As we, the Church, are purified of those who cross our threshold “come to the feet wickedness and evil, let us not forget to be bold of our Mother,” and in so doing, are brought in proclaiming that so much of what we do is closer to her Son, Jesus. ❦ National Shrine Welcomes New Chairman n May 21, 2019, as Archbishop in your prayers in his Archbishop Wilton new ministry to the faithful of the Gregory was installed Archdiocese of Washington and to Oas the seventh archbishop of each of us here at Mary’s Shrine. Washington, he also became the As our Holy Father, Pope Francis, Chairman of the National Shrine reminded the new archbishops on Board of Trustees. the Solemnity of Peter and Paul, “the shepherds do not live Archbishop Gregory is no for themselves but for the sheep,” stranger to the National Shrine. Archbishop Gregory will certainly For the past thirteen years, he has Archbishop Wilton Gregory need the prayerful support of us, his been a member of the National sheep. Shrine Board of Trustees and has served as the chair of our Liturgy and Music Committee. We at Mary’s Shrine entrust Archbishop Archbishop Gregory will bring a new era of Gregory and you to the intercession of Mary leadership to the National Shrine as we prepare Immaculate! for the future, including the celebration of our We also take this opportunity to thank Cardinal centennial anniversary in 2020, as America’s Donald Wuerl, who served as Chairman of . the National Shrine Board of Trustees during We are delighted to welcome Archbishop his tenure as Archbishop of Washington since Gregory and invite you to keep the 2006. Every blessing! ❦ MISSION STATEMENT

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the , a Catholic church dedicated to the patroness of our nation, is a place of worship, pilgrimage, evangelization and reconciliation. It offers visitors the occasion for a deepening conversion, a step forward in the journey to God, with Mary as the model for that journey. This monumental church, raised by Catholics of the United States because of their devotion to Mary the Mother of God, gives visibility to their faith and Catholic heritage. Mary’s Shrine invites people from across the country and beyond into the saving moment of faith, hope and charity, so that they may be reconciled and transformed into living symbols of Christ’s presence in the world. It is here that the faithful gather to worship God, give honor to Mary, and are sent to spread God’s word wherever they go. ❦

Mary’s Shrine v Fall/Winter 2019 Archbishop Gregory Installed

he Most Reverend Wilton D. Gregory was installed as the seventh Archbishop Tof Washington at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception on May 21, 2019, before a congregation of more than 3,000 of the faithful who gathered in the Great Upper Church. Archbishop Christophe Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States and Personal Representative of the Holy Father, read the

Apostolic Mandate in which Pope Photos Archdiocese by: of Washington Francis appointed Archbishop Archbishop Gregory receives the crosier during the Mass of Installation. Gregory Metropolitan Ordinary of Washington, releasing him Archbishop Gregory from the Archdiocese of Atlanta acknowledged, however, where he had served since 2005. that, “Today…we begin a journey together on With the mandate came an undeniably choppy seas,” Apostolic Blessing from the Holy likening it to the day’s Father which read, “Venerable Gospel reading (Mark Brother…we implore Almighty 4:35-41) in which the God to grace you before His disciples were terrified people with the virtues of during a violent squall as apostolic service, so that, together waves were breaking over with the intercession of the and filling their boat. Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, you may carry this Flock “We have been tossed in the same loving manner that a Archbishop Gregory greets his new flock. about by an unusually man carries his child.” turbulent moment in In the decree, Pope Francis our own faith journeys also exhorted the clergy and people of the recently and for far too long,” he said, Archdiocese of Washington to welcome admitting, “We clerics and hierarchs have Archbishop Gregory “as a father to be loved, a irrefutably been the source of this current teacher to be heeded, and a guardian of souls to tempest.” be supported.” But, just as Jesus calmed the seas, “He will Archbishop Gregory accepted the Apostolic calm and steady His Church,” Archbishop Mandate and was then presented with a crosier, Gregory said, explaining that, “Jesus is in the the sign of his pastoral office as the new boat with us during tempestuous times...He is shepherd of the Archdiocese of Washington. here...the One whom even wind and sea obey He was warmly received with a standing has never left our side.” ovation and sustained applause. Speaking to his new flock, Archbishop Gregory During his homily, Archbishop Gregory recalled said, “I arrive in this indescribably humbling the solemn promise he made, when, having moment of my life filled with deep gratitude, served as a since 1973, he was called immeasurable joy and unwavering confidence to serve as an Auxiliary Bishop of in that the Risen Lord who has guided my voyage 1983, then later as Bishop of Belleville in 1993. will remain beside me as I begin my service to the People of God in the Archdiocese of His promise was “to live in union with and in Washington.” obedience to the one who occupies the Chair of Peter.” He continued, “I happily, readily, Asking God to bless the Archdiocese of resolutely renew that promise today as I Washington, Archbishop Gregory concluded, accept the appointment of Pope Francis to “Be assured of my prayers for you even as I ask the extraordinary See of Washington.” for yours for me!” ❦

Mary’s Shrine v Fall/Winter 2019 was playingtheorganduringevening Mass when and Johann Vexo, theNotre Dame organistwho featuredThe concert theChoirofBasilica Our Lady. Paris, whichlikeMary’s Shrine isdedicatedto therestoration support oftheiconiccathedralin Freewill offeringswere acceptedatthedoorto the event wasfree andopentothepublic. Held intheGreat Upper Church oftheBasilica, of France intheUnited States. of theImmaculate ConceptionandtheEmbassy organized by theBasilica oftheNational Shrine O Notre Dame de Paris: A Benefit Concert Basilica ofSaint Paul Outside the Walls onMay 7; for aspecialMass of Thanksgiving atthePapal The Choirofthe Basilica provided sacred music significant milestone. the Eternal CityinMay 2019tohelpmark this National Shrine oftheImmaculate Conceptionto See, invitedtheChoirofBasilica ofthe Callista Gingrich, U.S.AmbassadortotheHoly I Basilica Choir Honors U.S.-Vatican Anniversary the restoration oftheCathedralNotre Dame. www.SupportNotreDame.org todirectly support donations through aspecialonlinecollectionat The National Shrine continuestowelcome www.youtube.com/marysshrine. National Shrine’s YouTube Channellocatedat maystillbeviewedonlineonthe concert States, inFrance, andaround theworld, Broadcast andlivestreamed across theUnited on April 15. the devastating fire broke outattheCathedral States and theHoly See, Her Excellency diplomatic relations between theUnited ofofficial n honorofthe35thanniversary Notre-Dame deParis people gathered for n April 26,2019,more than2,000 Together with , a benefit concert , abenefitconcert

concert at the National Shrine. theNational concert at Johann Vexo, NotreDameorganist, playsduringthebenefit the . diplomatic relations between theUnited States and Gardens of tocommemoratethe35thanniversary Mater Ecclesiae 10, sangfortheRiteofBlessing anddedicationof Maria Sopra Minerva onMay 8;and,onMay attheBasilica aspecialconcert ofSanta performed announcement inthisregard. Cathedral inParis. Stay tunedforanupcoming of present thecollective donationsandprayers to Mary’s Shrine sothathemaypersonally Chauvet, Rector-Archpriest ofNotre Dame, Basilica, hasinvitedMonseigneur Patrick Monsignor Walter Rossi, Rector ofthe anniversary so meaningful andmemorable. so meaningful anniversary making theweeklong celebration ofthishistoric Director ofMusic, andtheChoirofBasilica for Rossi, Rector oftheBasilica, Dr. Peter Latona, Ambassador Gingrich thankedMonsignor Walter through the power andbeautyofmusic.” andminds ofpilgrims,farandwide, the hearts Gingrich continued,“the Choirworks totransform human dignityaround theworld,” Ambassador we work toadvance“While peace,freedom, and spiritual ambassadorsoftheBasilica. The membersoftheChoir, inmanywaysare Embassy, isengagedinaspecialkindof diplomacy. celebrate our35thAnniversary. The Choir, likeour Choir oftheBasilica ishere thisweek tohelpus Basilica Choir, remarked that,“It isfittingthatthe Ambassador Gingrich, aone-timememberofthe America’s Catholic Church , a new statuegiftedtothe , anew Vatican Mary’s Shrine toOur Lady’s v ❦ Fall/Winter 2019 ❦

Matthew Barrick One Hundred Years of Giving

ext year will mark 100 years since the laying of the cornerstone of the National Shrine. As we prepare to commemorate Nour centenary year, we will also be celebrating you and the millions of other Catholics and visitors around the globe who have contributed to Mary’s Shrine over the last century. As Christian stewards, the gifts God bestows Archival photo on all of us in His infinite generosity are to be shared with others. Through your own Laying the Conerstone in 1920. generosity, those gifts are magnified and returned to the Lord. All of us at Mary’s Shrine are honored and grateful you choose to support In 2017, donations from people across the the ministry of America’s Catholic Church. country enabled us to complete the magnificent Thank you! We, therefore, thought you might Trinity Dome Mosaic. This tremendous work be interested in knowing some of the ways of art brought to completion the construction over the past century in which your gifts to of the Great Upper Church, which began more the Shrine have been used and how we have than sixty years prior. Every dollar raised for the returned to the Lord the generosity you and completion of the Trinity Dome went directly to many others have shown to the Shrine. its construction, and if you have not seen it, we encourage you to visit the Shrine and appreciate To begin, the cornerstone of the Shrine itself this masterpiece in person. was donated to the National Shrine! Yet, In addition to these important projects, your fundraising for the magnificent Shrine dedicated donations also fund basic necessities, such as to Our Lady began years earlier. Initial support purchasing candles and liturgical vestments, helped erect the Crypt Church, in which the paying the electric bill each month, and first public Mass was celebrated on Easter maintaining this magnificent and sacred place. Sunday, 1924. Literally, your continuing support helps Mary’s Construction began on the Great Upper Church Shrine keep the lights on as a tool of ministry in 1955. Donations by hardworking Americans and evangelization for our nation. funded many aspects of the project such as Mary’s Shrine is a unique place of excellence and hiring brick masons and carpenters, assembling great majestic beauty. It is America’s Catholic Church the immense scaffolding, and purchasing and, as you can see, our leadership and staff take necessary materials such as concrete, bricks, and seriously the trust you put in us with every sacrificial the magnificent Botticino marble that adorns donation you make to Mary’s Shrine. and supports the structure. Thank you once again for your prayers and More recently, in September of 2015, Mary’s support. Mary’s Shrine is here because of your Shrine was honored to host our Holy Father, Pope support over the last 100 years and, with your Francis, for the Mass and of support, we look forward to bringing the light of Junípero Serra on the East Portico, the first-ever Christ and hope of Our Lady to our nation and canonization to take place on American soil. Your to visitors from around the world for the next support assisted us in co-hosting this historic event. 100 years and beyond. ❦ Upcoming Pilgrimages to Mary’s Shrine Indian American September 7 October 19 Archdiocese of Catholic Association September 8 Croatian Catholic Community October 26 Archdiocese of Newark International Day of Prayer September 14 Marian Rosary Congress November 2 and Fasting September 28 Mother of Africa December 7 Haitian Catholic Community

Archdiocese of Washington October 5 Diocese of Wilmington December 14 Our Lady of Guadalupe

October 12 Diocese of Richmond January 23-24 National Prayer Vigil for Life

Mary’s Shrine v Fall/Winter 2019

1909 Society Recognitions Members of the 1909 Society generously provide financial resources to maintain the National Shrine throughout the year and in perpetuity, in loving and everlasting tribute to Mary Immaculate. For more information, please visit www.nationalshrine.com/1909society. Joayn and Stephen Bahr Ms. Kathleen Keenan Mrs. Rosalba Perez Mr. and Mrs. Robert and Mrs. Sharon Keller Mrs. Teresa L. Philippy Kathleen Baker Ms. Mary Pat Kenlon Dr. Christopher Poje Mr. Harry K. Ballantyne Mr. and Mrs. Dan Krumenaker Mr. John Ptak Mr. and Mrs. Dwayne Bellow Elizabeth C. Kurian Mr. and Mrs. Mark J. Redding and Family Mrs. Regina C. Lancaster Mr. Peter A. Richardson Mr. and Mrs. Robert D. Bolan Ms. Joan Lewis Mr. Paul G. Romanek Mr. and Mrs. J. Brogan Ms. Margaret Lieberton Ms. Virginia Roscoe Ms. Florence T. Chloe Mr. and Mrs. Frank Liebsch Ms. Nancy S. Sappington Mrs. Suzanne Cobb Mr. Ronald G. Macala Mr. and Mrs. Robert E. and Mr. and Mrs. Thomas L. Crovo Mr. and Mrs. Joseph M. Mattone Penny G. Schafer Mr. James J. Dillon Sally and Patrick McAleer Mrs. Mary E. Schmitz Jeff and Michele Dodson Mr. and Mrs. and Mr. and Mrs. Joseph and Elaine Dr. Maureen B. Doyle Theresa McCue Scuderi Mr. John F. Durbin Mr. and Mrs. Sean McGinn Ms. Angela Shields Mr. and Mrs. George V. Egge McGonigle Family Mr. E. Stauber Frank and Carolyn Ewasyshyn Jeffrey McGovern and Family Mr. James J. Stone Ms. C. Tutty Fairbanks Stephen and Debra McGregor Thomas F.P. Sullivan Mr. Gerald P. Curran and Mrs. Mr. Mark J. McKnight Mr. and Mrs. Salvador T. Tarroza Nida Fe Bitoin – Curran Mr. Robert E. McLaughlin, Sr. The Deehan, Bisch, and Garner Mr. John Gagliardo Rev. Msgr. James W. McLoughlin Families Jack and Georgie Gibbs Dr. Robert T. Means, Jr. Mrs. Margaret J. Trone Clara A. Gorski Mr. and Mrs. Albert Mladineo Ms. Lily Tu Mr. John W. Hart Col. and Mrs. Douglas and Cathy Mr. Richard L. Vogel Col. and Mrs. Michael J. Healy, Morrison Mr. and Mrs. Kevin W. Vollbracht USA Ret. Christopher and Maureen Mucha Ms. Linda Waksmunski Capt. Deborah Ann Hinkley, Carolyn F. Mueller Mr. and Mrs. Richard B. Walker USN Ret. Ms. Theresa M. Newman Mr. and Mrs. Scott Watkins Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Hughes Mr. Vincent H. Nocon Ms. Rosemarie S. Weber Ms. Clara Hunger Mr. and Mrs. Jeff and Mary Noonan Mrs. Loretta Wilson Mr. and Mrs. and Chief (Sir) Godwin N.P. Onukaogu Dr. and Mrs. Rudolph and Annette Ingram CJS (KofC) Mavis Wolf Mr. Ryan Israel Ms. Kimberly Ott Ms. Judy Woodson Guan-Kooi Jim Col. Julius D. Pantalone, USA Ret. Mr. and Mrs. James and Ms. L.K. Jones Mr. Vincent A. Parise Carol Wyble George Kalinski, Col. USA Ret. Mr. and Mrs. Steven and Mr. and Mrs. Richard C. Zwierko Ms. Nancy Kearney Nancy Payne

Upcoming Basilica Broadcasts on EWTN (all times Eastern) September 14 Marian Rosary Congress Pilgrimage Mass 2:00 pm October 4 Worldwide Children’s Eucharistic Holy Hour 10:00 am November 1 The Solemn Mass of All Saints 12 noon November 2 Concert for the Commemoration of All Souls 7:30 pm December 9 The Solemn Mass of the Immaculate Conception 12 noon December 24 Choral Meditations/Solemn Mass of Christmas Eve 10:00 pm December 25 The Solemn Mass of Christmas 12 noon December 25 Spanish Christmas Mass (EWTN Español) 2:30 pm January 23 National Prayer Vigil for Life Opening Mass 5:30 pm January 24 National Prayer Vigil for Life Closing Mass 7:30 am January 28 CUA Mass in Honor of Saint 12:10 pm

Mary’s Shrine v Fall/Winter 2019 The Blessing of the Land Geraldine M. Rohling, Ph.D., M.A.Ed. Archivist-Curator

he custom of blessing is as old as University but its proximity to Glenwood creation itself. In the book of Genesis, Cemetery and other burial grounds made it Twe read that at the end of each “day,” similarly unpleasant. The location question was God blessed the work. Thus, on the third day, thoroughly discussed both privately and, with God created “the dry land, ‘Earth,’ … [and] the help of the press, publicly. During their fall God saw that it was good” (Genesis 1:10-12). meeting of 1887, the bishop trustees agreed All was made holy. to retain the Middleton There are many types of estate in northeast D.C. blessings; among them, and proceed with the blessings for churches original plan. and the land upon The city was growing and which they stand. This within two years, the ex- blessing designates the tension of the “Eckington structure and the acreage electric railway” (street- for divine service and car) up Fourth Street to creates a distinct spiritual Michigan Avenue, would relationship; an abiding open up the area previ- quality of sacredness. The ously tagged as “unavail- church and the land are able property.” With the made inviolably sacred. extension of the streetcar A Question of Location line came the addition of In 1885, Walter S. Perry streetlights, another sign (trustee for the Middletons) of urbanization. To enable and Mary V. Middleton further access, the bishops planned to give the recorded a deed of sale to Rohling Geraldine M. B&O Railroad “sufficient James Cardinal Gibbons, Creation, Mary Reardon (1973) Archbishop of Baltimore, ground” for the construc- for a 62-acre tract of land known as “Turkey tion of “a handsome depot,” Cardinal Station, Thicket.” This purchase was part of the effort of which, in February of 1978, would become the the American bishops of the Roman Catholic Brookland/CUA station on the Metro Red Line. Church to establish a graduate school for the Such improvements aided in the development “sacred sciences” in Washington, D.C. that of the surrounding community of “Brookland.” would rival similar institutions of Europe. Whether by chance or just shrewd business, the 1887 development of the adjacent 134 acres of The wisdom of this purchase—not the land but the estate of Colonel Jehiel Brooks, in tandem its location—came into question two years later. with the rise of “little ,” was a venture Situated three or four miles from the “heart of that would and did pay well. During the the city,” it was considered “incon- commencement exercises of June 1909, venient” and too far outside of the city of Washington, D.C. Earlier maps and publications occasionally referred to this part of the District as “the northeast frontier,” with Boundary Road (Florida Avenue, NE), marking the limits of the city. Further objections were raised because of the proximity of the acreage to the cattle yards of the B & O Railroad that formed its eastern boundary (now the Metro line). Consequently, there was talk of selling the estate and purchasing a tract of land closer to downtown.

Consideration was also given BNSIC Archives to property just east of Howard 1890 Map

Mary’s Shrine v FallFall/Winter 2019 2019 Rector Thomas J. Shahan noted, “the university to imply. Frederick V. Murphy, who Shahan found Northeast Washington an undeveloped chose to establish the school of architec- section of the city. Gradually this section has de- ture, stated in a 1957 interview that Msgr. veloped [in tandem with the university] … until Edward A. Pace, the first dean of the School of Brookland … was rightly accounted among the Philosophy, offered to donate some property most desirable parts of our beautiful city.” located on Fort Totten Hill, the location of one of the Civil War defenses that encircled the The Gaffe of the Secretary city. He added the suggestion that the Brothers In 1910, Rev. Patrick J. Waters of , a of Mary from Dayton, Ohio, might also be Ph.D. candidate appointed to the Anna Hope approached about selling some of their property Hudson Fellowship in Philosophy, became the at that location. Shahan however, felt that the private secretary to Rector Shahan. One day in church needed to be on the premises of the the spring of 1911, Shahan invited Waters to go for a walk. As they wandered about the grounds university not only for the students but also for admiring the beauty, Shahan told Waters of administrative reasons. his plan to “erect a beautiful national shrine.” Another proposed location was where the In a letter written some fifty years later, John K. Mullen of Denver Memorial Library Rt. Rev. Msgr. Waters sheepishly admitted that stands today. A detail from a 1914 lithograph he “tried to discourage” Shahan by saying “there shows the “university cathedral” at the center were already beautiful churches in Baltimore of the campus. This plan was developed by and Washington,” and suggested a smaller Murphy at the request of Shahan. According to project, “a church for students.” Shahan, ever Murphy, it was at this time that the idea of a the visionary, had his mind set on a magnificent “crypt church” came into focus, as it would fill shrine modeled after similar churches in Europe. in “the hollow space at the site.” In this same letter, Waters stated that Shahan pointed out to him the site he had chosen for The perfect location was yet to be found. A this magnificent church. Once again, the young preliminary survey of the campus grounds cleric expressed his opposition claiming that was made. The Olmsted Brothers, landscape the location “was too near the road and there would be no room for lawns or landscaping.” The “kid” was 0 for 2. Whether it was because of this discussion or the needs of his archbishop, that June, Waters was recalled to Boston to join the faculty of the archdiocesan seminary. BNSIC Archives

Mr. Leo F. Olds, BNSIC Archives the brother of 1914 Murphy-Olmsted Plan Rev. Alonzo J.Olds, pastor of St. Augustine’s Church and the found- architects from Brookline, Massachusetts, made er of the Sanctuary Choir of the parish, replaced a careful study of the survey and recommended him. Olds was enthusiastic about the project. the location where the National Shrine stands Sadly, Olds resigned in 1915 for health reasons; today. Frederick regarded this location as he died two years later (39). Rev. Bernard A. central to the university and the surrounding McKenna of Philadelphia, a former student of scholasticates and religious houses, all of which Shahan and alumnus of the university, was then would serve and be served by the Shrine. appointed secretary “with a special view to the work of the National Shrine.” The saying “third Even though the chosen site was on level times the charm” could never have been truer. ground, the idea of a “crypt church” had McKenna became Shahan’s right-hand-man; the taken hold. This had a major impact on the most devoted champion of the National Shrine architectural and which part of the Shrine and Bishop Shahan, and the first director of the would first be constructed. National Shrine. On 8 January 1919, the Committee on The location for the National Shrine, however, the National Shrine listed the names of was not as cut and dry as Msgr. Waters seemed eight architects for the and discussed

Mary’s Shrine v Fall/Winter 2019 The Blessing of the Land

the qualifications of each: John T. Comès, Following a concerted effort to acquire the Pittsburgh; Henry Dandurand Dagit (Henry necessary funds to begin construction, includ- D. Dagit & Sons), Philadelphia; Edward T. P. ing papal approval, a papal blessing, and even a Graham, Boston; Charles R. Greco, Boston; papal donation, plans were made for the actual F. Burrall Hoffman, New York and Florida; work to begin. As with all things, it would begin Charles D. Maginnis (Maginnis and Walsh), “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and Brookline; Paul Monaghan, Philadelphia; of the Holy Spirit.” Frederick V. Murphy (Murphy & Olmsted), The Blessing of the Site Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia. Each On Sunday morning, 16 May 1920, at 9:00 a.m. nominee was esteemed in the field of church more than 6,000 persons, including a delega- architecture. In the end, the minutes would tion of 1500 Knights of Columbus from New record that by “unanimous consent,” the York City and 600 members of the New York committee favored “a Romanesque Church” and Chapter of the Daughters of Isabella, attended recommended “Mr. Charles Maginnis of Boston an open air Mass and the blessing of the site for ... as the architect of the building” with Mr. the future National Shrine of the Immaculate Frederick V. Murphy as associate architect. Conception. An al fresco breakfast and lunch That same year, plans for the National Shrine were provided for all who attended the event. presented by Charles Maginnis were approved and adopted at the December meeting of the Board of Trustees. The bishop trustees further authorized the Building Committee to select the material and award the contract for the con- struction of “the Crypt of the apse at the cost of $280,000 more or less.” (This would be a little more than $3.5 million in 2019.) The location was also finalized. As platted by the Olmsted Brothers on 28 June 1919, the Shrine would be located at “the western side of the University property, parallel with Harewood Avenue (Road) and five hundred feet from Michigan Avenue.” BNSIC Archives 1920 Knights of Columbus

Archbishop Giovanni Bonzano, the Apostolic Delegate to the United States, was the celebrant. After blessing the site, Archbishop Bonzano removed the cope and prepared for Mass by donning the vestments worn by Archbishop John Carroll, the father of the American hierarchy. Mass was celebrated on a small wooden altar built in 1774 and used by Father Carroll at the family home at Forest Glen near Rock Creek in , until his elevation to the See of Baltimore in 1789. This treasured artifact became the main altar in the Crypt Church beginning with the celebration of the first public Mass on Easter Sunday, 20 April 1924, until the installa- tion of the onyx altar in honor of Our Lady of the Catacombs (Mary Memorial Altar) in 1927. The chalice used on this day was the first vessel made specifically for the National Shrine. It was also used at the first public Mass in the Crypt Church and on 8 December 2017, at the bless- ing of The Trinity dome mosaic, which marked the completion of the interior of the National Shrine. In addition to its use at such historical

BNSIC Archives celebrations, the chalice is part of the daily rota- 1919 Olmsted Brothers Plan tion of sacred vessels used at the National Shrine.

Mary’s Shrine v FallFall/Winter 2019 2019 Leading the liturgical procession that day was a cross bearer and two candle bearers, one of whom was a young priest (indicated in photo with an arrow), ordained just eight months earlier in Peoria, Illinois. At that time, Reverend Fulton John Sheen was a theology student at the university. In his auto- biography, Treasure in Clay, Archbishop Sheen recounted a meeting with the “brilliant, gifted,

BNSIC Archives saintly rector” who saw in this young priest, Blessing of the Site someone “destined to shed … light and luster.” The outdoor sanctuary was situated within the The relationship that began that day between outline of the Shrine that was marked by white this young priest and the National Shrine of the cord strung along a series of stakes. American flags Immaculate Conception was to last more than marked the angles and turns in the exterior walls. a lifetime. A life-long friend of the Shrine, the The altar stood on the spot where the baldachin broadcasts of Fulton J. Sheen from the Crypt altar in honor of the Immaculate Conception now Church, Masses and sermons in the Great stands in the Great Upper Church. Upper Church, whether nationally televised or not, contributed much to its growth. Following the Mass, Bishop Thomas J. Shahan addressed the gathering. “At the present time,” said Shahan, “when the modern world is ... given over to corruption and impurity of various kinds ... a shrine to the Immaculate Conception” is needed more than ever. A choir of 487 voices provided the music for the solemn occasion. In addition to members of the various religious communities, 100 children from St. Vincent’s Orphan Asylum, located just south of the Shrine, were also numbered among the singers. The Rev. Dr. A. L. Gabert, professor of Plain Chant, was the director. BNSIC Archives 1964 Midnight Mass

In 1989, friends and benefactors installed a marble and hand-carved wood lectern in the Crypt Church as a tribute to the memory of this man of rhetorical and philosophical eloquence. On July 6, Pope Francis approved the miracle attributed to the intercession of Venerable Fulton J. Sheen. The date of his is yet to be determined. Pilgrims and visitors are encouraged to come

BNSIC Archives to the National Shrine, to walk the historic Entrance Procession and beautiful grounds and gardens, to visit the In addition to the blessing of the site, Archbishop shrines of the world under this one roof, and to Bonzano also blessed a statue of , who pause and remember the thousands of faithful was canonized in Rome concurrently. The fate of souls, the true Body of Christ, who have made this statue is unknown. In addition to the statue, and continue to make this church and this land the National Shrine also received a stone from the inviolably sacred. dungeon where Saint Joan was imprisoned until “God saw everything that he had made, and her death. The stone is displayed in the Chapel of indeed, it was very good. And there was evening Our Lady of Lourdes. and there was morning …” (Genesis 1:31). ❦

Mary’s ShrineMary’s vShrine Fall/Winter v Fall 2019 GIFTS from MARY’S SHRINE 2020 Mary and the Saints Wall Calendar 700 Designed to inspire greater devotion to The Blessed Mother every day of the year and contains special feasts and is marked with days of Fasting, special Saints Days, and the Sundays Glass Ornaments of the Liturgical Year for Feature traditional Catholic images on both sides. both the Ordinary and 4" discs $14.95ea Extraordinary Calendars. $14.95 701 Holy Family 702 Madonna & Child

Beautiful Nativity Bracelet Advent Wreath and Candles 703 Handmade in USA this bracelet 704 Celebrate the Advent Season with features Baby Jesus in the Manger this The Holy Family Candle Holder and cross charms, glass beads and 10” long $79.95 toggle closure. Fits 7 1/2” Comes 705 Set of 4 tapers in traditional colors, boxed with message card 3 purple and 1 pink. Comes boxed “Wisemen still seek Him” $45.95 (not shown) $7.95 Madonna and Child Christmas Cards 707 Share the Advent and Christmas season with your friends and family with this beautiful card. Verse inside: May you keep in your heart the miracle of Christmas today and forever. Box has 18 cards and envelopes $18.00 Tiny Bell Nativity Immaculate Heart of Mary and 706 Red Bell with pewter nativity Child Jesus Tapestry Pouch inside. 3” $12.95 708 Will hold your rosary and holy cards perfectly. $14.95

2020 St. Joseph Through the Year with Sunday Missal Fulton Sheen Book 709 A complete annual Sunday 710 The master storyteller and Missal with each Sunday’s preacher shares words of Delicate Our Lady Charm Bracelet Prayers, Readings, Responses encouragement, counsel and 711 4mm beads and tiny charms are gold plated for the calendar year and the direction for each day of the over sterling. Fits 7½” $29.95 Masses for Holy Days. $5.95 year. $16.95 All proceeds from your purchases of Mary's Shrine directly support the mission and ministry of the Basilica. Thank you for your support!

Mary’suse Shrineattached v Fall 2019 order form or call toll-free 1-800-333-4411 GIFTS from MARY’S SHRINE

Glass Pearl Bracelet Tiny Bead Rosary Necklace and Scapular Bracelet 712 Is made with cross charm and a dainty This delicate rosary features Our Lady of Grace center. The Scapular crystal “ruby” drop accent. “Her worth is bracelet fits 7-8”. Both are gold plated over sterling. more than rubies and pearls.”(Proverbs 713 Rosary Necklace $36.95 31:10) message card included. $39.95 714 Scapular Bracelet $21.95

Know Thyself Our Daily Red 716 is an invaluable resource. Adapted from Rev. Fr. Cajetan da Stemless Wine Glass 's classic Humility of 717 15oz $14.95 Love does not measure Tshirt Heart and supplemented with 715 Mother Teresa quote on 100% cotton. writings from the saints and Forgive me Father Sizes SMLXL $29.95 powerful scripture passages. Stemless Wine Glass Hardcover $24.95 718 15oz $14.95

Sterling Crystal Miraculous Necklace 719 Wear it as a reminder of the Graces of Our Lady 18” $79.95 Immaculate Waters Soaps and Lotions Song of Angel made with Lourdes Grotto Water Christmas Cards Follow the words of Our Lady to St. Bernadette: 728 Share the Advent and “Go to the spring, drink of it and wash yourself there.” Christmas season beautiful 720 Lavender Bar Soap 4oz $6.95 card with artwork by William 721 Lavender Hand and Body Lotion 8oz $12.95 Bouguereau. Verse inside: In His birth we are blessed, in 722 Lavender Liquid Soap 8oz $12.95 His name we rejoice at 723 Rose Bar Soap 4oz $6.95 Christmas and all through the 724 Rose Hand and Body Lotion 8oz $12.95 year. Each Box has 18 cards 725 Rose Liquid Soap 8oz $12.95 and envelopes. $18.00 726 Rose Spritzer 4oz $9.95 727 Lavender Spritzer 4oz $9.95 Please visit our website at nationalshrineshops.com

Visit Our National Shrine Shops Website at www.nationalshrineshops.com Mary’s Shrine v Fall 2019 GIFTS from MARY’S SHRINE

St Nicholas Socks Our Lady of make a wonderful gift for Guadalupe Rosary Tiny Angel Ornament adults and kids alike. 730 Clear Krystal Angel 3” $9.95 729 in a lovely box is made of 731 Adult St Nicholas Socks rose scented wood beads one size fits all $14.95 and resin roses with an Our 732 Kids St Nicholas Socks Lady of Guadalupe center. one size fits all $11.95 $24.95 St Nicholas Madonna of the Roses Christmas Cards Tiny Saint 733 Clips on 734 Artwork by William Bouguereau. Verse anywhere for a inside: At Christmas, we remember cute little gift. God’s precious gifts of his own Son and $5.95 of the Mystical Rose, His Mother. Box has 18 cards and envelopes. $18.00

Jesus Me and My Christmas Tree Board Book 735 Adorable illustrations and playful rhyming text bring the story of Jesus’ birth alive for young children. This board book, die- cut in the shape of the tree is a St Michael perfect gift to help little ones Kneeling Santa Ornament Tiny Saint understand “How the Christmas 736 That at the name of Jesus every 739 Clips on tree is connected to Jesus’ knee shall bow. This ornament anywhere for birth.” $6.99 represents this scripture. a cute little 3” $14.95 gift. $5.95

St Teresa of Calcutta Little Nativity Statue Love Does Not 737 A sweet gift for children of Measure Mug all ages. Made of resin. 738 11oz. $9.95 4x5” $34.95

Please visit our website at St Michael Socks 740 Adult St Michael Socks – one size fits all $14.95 nationalshrineshops.com 741 Kids St Michael Socks – one size fits all $11.95

use attached order form or call toll-free 1-800-333-4411 GIFTS from MARY’S SHRINE

Murano Glass Saint Benedict Charm Saint Benedict Rosary Cross Necklace Stretch Bracelets 742 Multi colored crystal and boxed with 743 Each one is slightly 744 Opalescence $14.95 explanation of the Benedictine medal. different and Made in 745 Light Blue $14.95 $24.95 . 18” chain $49.95 746 Charcoal $14.95

St Benedict Cross Pint Glass 747 16oz $7.95 I was Born to Do This TShirt 749 Quote from St. Joan of Arc. SMLXL $29.95 Home Rules Tapestry 748 Wall hanging to teach us how to Love-One-Another 13x18" $14.95

St Joan of Arc Socks 753 Adult St Joan of Arc Socks St Benedict Socks one size fits all $14.95 750 Adult St Benedict Socks Serenity Angel Figurine 754 Kids St Joan of Arc Socks $11.95 one size fits $14.95 752 A helpful reminder for yourself 751 Kids St Benedict Socks or a friend. 4” $9.95 one size fits $11.95

L’Innocence Christmas Cards 757 Share the Advent and Christmas season with your friends and family with Good Morning Aqua 8mm Crystal artwork by William Bouguereau. Verse This is God Mug Stretch Bracelet inside: May this Christmas season fill 755 Reads “I will be handling all 756 Made with floral crystal accent beads, you with peace and touch you with your problems today.” miraculous medal and crucifix charms. God’s Love.Each Box has 18 cards and 15oz $9.95 Made in Italy. $29.95 envelopes. $18.00

Visit Our National Shrine Shops Website at www.nationalshrineshops.com con for sliece af Leaving a Legacy Remembering the National Shrine in Your Will

or many, charitable giving is an act of faith PAID Fgrounded in confidence in God’s abundance U.S. Postage and motivated by a desire to create additional resources for accomplishing God’s work. Organization Nonprofit Basilica of the National Shrine Leaving a legacy gift to the Basilica of the of the Immaculate Conception National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception offers the opportunity to pass on not only your assets but also the values that have guided your life. Remembering the National Shrine in your estate planning is a wonderful way to put your values into action, ensuring that Mary’s House is maintained for future generations as a center of worship and devotion as a personal legacy. To remember the Basilica of the National Shrine in your will, you may contact your attorney or financial advisor for assistance in making a bequest. Or, you may simply include the following in your will:

I give, devise, and bequeath to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, a body corporate of the District of Columbia, and located in Washington, D.C., (the sum of _____) or (__ % of rest residue, and remainder of my estate) or (__ shares of _____) or all my right, title and interest in the following described property _____).

Please feel free to contact the Basilica at 202-526-8300 if we can provide you with further information or assistance. Basilica of the National Shrine National the of Basilica Conception Immaculate the of NE Avenue Michigan 400 20017 DC Washington, Thank you for your prayerful consideration and continued support of Mary’s Shrine.

vvvvv Location Monday-Saturday Confessions 400 Michigan Avenue, NE 7:45 am - 8:15 am Washington, DC 20017 10 am - 12 noon MARY’S Tel: 202-526-8300 3:30 pm - 6 pm Fax: 202-526-8313 Holy Days SHRINE [email protected] Please contact the Basilica for vvvvv www.nationalshrine.org

Holy Day Schedules. Cover photo by Robert Isacson Shrine Hours Guided Tours 7 am - 7 pm (April - October) A publication of the Basilica of the National Monday - Saturday 7 am - 6 pm (November - March) Shrine of the Immaculate Conception 9 am, 10 am, 11 am, 1 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm Sunday Reverend Monsignor Walter R. Rossi Sunday Masses 1:30 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm Rector 5:15 pm (Saturday Vigil) 7:30 am, 9 am, 10:30 am Gift Shop & Bookstore Reverend Monsignor Vito A. Buonanno 12 noon (Solemn Mass with Choir) Open Daily Director of Pilgrimages 1:30 pm (Spanish) Monday - Friday: 9 am - 5:30 pm (Year-Round) 4:30 pm Saturday - Sunday: Reverend Michael D. Weston 8:30 am - 7 pm (April 1- October 31 ) Director of Liturgy Sunday Confessions 8:30 am - 5:30 pm (November 1- March 31) 10 am - 12 noon 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm (Spanish) Cafeteria Reverend Raymond A. Lebrun, O.M.I. 2 pm - 4 pm Open Daily Spiritual Director 7:30 am - 2 pm (Sundays until 3 pm) Jacquelyn Hayes Monday-Saturday Masses 7 am, 7:30 am, 8 am, 8:30 am Director of Communications & Editor © 2019 Basilica of the National Shrine 12:10 pm, 5:15 pm of the Immaculate Conception