A Pilgrimage to the National Shrine of Saint Therese

BY DEACON PATRICK WHITCOMB SAINT THERESE PARISH, APPLETON, WISCONSIN

When we started to plan a trip for our active senior citizens in late October, we thought that a pilgrimage to the National Shrine of Saint Therese in Darien, Illinois, would be a natural. And so, we put the word out that we would be planning such a trip.

We left Appleton, Wisconsin, early in the morning loaded down with hot coffee, sweet rolls, and a lot of enthusiasm. Father Bill Hoffman, our pastor, was able to take two days out of his busy schedule and come along. We were blessed to have him with us. Shortly after we left Appleton, we started our pilgrimage by being led in praying the rosary by some of our holy ladies. We also prayed the Chaplet together in the early afternoon.

Though we were a bit late in arriving, the staff at the Carmelite Spiritual Center in Darien greeted us with warm smiles and hot food. Father John was to be our guide while we were there. After an introduction to the spirituality of Saint Therese, we had Benediction and quiet prayer time; then to bed. Wait a minute; I must be honest about this. At least half the people went to bed. The rest divided into three groups: One group praying the rosary in front of the Blessed Sacrament, one group having an intellectual discussion about the qualities of life, and third group playing cards. Go figure!

We started the day on Tuesday with breakfast, followed by a prayer service in the Shrine Chapel. After that, we were given a guided tour of the Shrine and its relics and artifacts. We also watched a video of the life and spirituality of the Little Flower. I think all of us learned a few things we did not know about this saint. To say she was feisty is an understatement, but her life reminds us that we are called to be available and ready, regardless of our past. What a lady! Following the tour, we attended Mass in the chapel. It was an inspiration to see so many people come for daily Mass. Most that attended live nearby but some traveled a good distance.

The trip home was a time to think about our experience and what we were taking home with us. For me, it was the realization that Therese was so like us in her human nature, yet so holy in her living and dying. Therese truly is a saint for our time.

I was also impressed by the beauty of the grounds and buildings. What an example of how a Shrine in the midst of freeways and vehicles, can still project an aura of holiness. Add to that the pond and the rolling landscape, and you have an ideal setting to feast on nature and meditate on God’s love.

And so, to Father John and the whole staff at the National Shrine of Saint Therese, a big and heart-filled thanks for making our pilgrimage such a good experience.