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Past Events from May 9, 2024 - May 18, 2024Martyrs' Shrine
**The Shrine Church is now closed for its Regular Season, but our Giftstore and Restaurant remain open to the public. Click here for hours. Full services resume May 3, 2025**

* The Ascension of the Lord (S)

The Ascension of the Lord, celebrated 40 days after Easter, commemorates the moment when Jesus ascended into heaven in the presence of His disciples, as described in Acts 1:9-11. This event marks the conclusion of Jesus’ earthly ministry and His return to the Father, signifying His triumph over sin and death. The Ascension also symbolizes […]

St. John of Avila (OM)

Saint John of Avila (1500–1569) was a Spanish priest, mystic, and theologian, known for his deep spirituality and influence during the Catholic Reformation. He was a passionate preacher, emphasizing personal holiness and the importance of the sacraments. Often referred to as the "Apostle of Andalusia," he worked to revive and reform the clergy, urging them […]

* World Communications Day

World Communications Day, observed annually on the Sunday before Pentecost, highlights the Catholic Church's role in promoting dialogue, truth, and justice through media. Established by Pope Paul VI in 1967, this day encourages reflection on the importance of communication in spreading the Gospel message. The Church recognizes the power of modern media—television, radio, social media, […]

Sts. Nereus & Achilleus (OM)

Saints Nereus and Achilleus were early Christian martyrs who are commemorated together on May 12. According to tradition, they were soldiers in the Roman army who converted to Christianity during the reign of Emperor Diocletian. Nereus and Achilleus, along with a third Christian, St. Pancras, were arrested for refusing to renounce their faith. They were […]

St. Pancras (OM)

Saint Pancras (d. 304) was a young Christian martyr who is venerated as one of the saints of the early Church. He was just 14 years old when he was arrested during the persecution of Christians under Emperor Diocletian. Pancras, originally from Phrygia (modern-day Turkey), had moved to Rome with his guardian. When he refused […]

Canada Health Day

Canada Health Day, observed on May 12, aligns with the Catholic Church’s commitment to health, compassion, and care for the marginalized. Rooted in Catholic social teaching, which emphasizes the dignity of the human person, the Church supports efforts to ensure access to healthcare for all, especially the poor and vulnerable. The day promotes reflection on […]

Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day, while not a liturgical feast in the Catholic Church, holds significant spiritual and cultural relevance. The Church honours motherhood as a reflection of God’s love and care, with Mary, the mother of Jesus, being the ultimate example of maternal devotion and faith. On Mother’s Day, Catholics often reflect on the importance of mothers […]

Our Lady of Fatima (OM)

Our Lady of Fatima refers to the title given to the Virgin Mary following her apparitions to three shepherd children—Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta—in Fatima, Portugal, in 1917. Over six months, Mary appeared to the children, delivering messages of prayer, repentance, and the need for devotion to her Immaculate Heart. She urged the faithful to pray […]

St. Matthias (F)

Saint Matthias was the apostle chosen to replace Judas Iscariot after his betrayal and death. According to the Acts of the Apostles, Matthias was selected by the remaining eleven apostles through prayer and the casting of lots. He had been a follower of Jesus from His baptism by John the Baptist until the Ascension, ensuring […]

* Vigil of Pentecost

The Vigil of Pentecost is celebrated on the evening before Pentecost Sunday, marking the culmination of the Easter season. It commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, as described in Acts 2, and the birth of the Church. The vigil typically includes Scripture readings that reflect the themes of renewal, empowerment, and […]