Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Welcome to the Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy, a beautiful and historic pilgrimage site dedicated to the beloved Virgin Mary. Located in the small town of Santo Domingo, Spain, the shrine is a source of inspiration and a sign of faith for pilgrims from around the world. Whether you’re exploring nearby or taking time to pay homage to Our Lady, the Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy offers an amazing experience. Read on to learn more about this site, including interesting facts, information, and a travel guide to planning your visit.

Interesting Facts About Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy

1. The Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy in Penola, South Australia was originally founded in 1883 by then parish priest Father Julian Tenison Woods.

2. It is Australia’s oldest and most spiritual shrine dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

3. The original Shrine, which was built in the Gothic Revival style, survived until 1954 when it was demolished and replaced by a modern Shrine.

4. In 2008 the Shrine was restored to its former glory with the help of local volunteers and 30 farmers.

5. The Shrine is home to three different Marian apparitions which include the Virgin of Good Hope of 1877, the Immaculate Conception of 1884 and the Queen of Angels of 1915.

6. Every year on the 15th August, a Novena of Masses is held at the Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy in Penola, drawing thousands of faithful from all around the country.

7. Pilgrims from all over the world come to the Shrine to pay homage to Our Lady of Mercy.

8. The Shrine is listed on the National Estate registers and is under the protection of the National Trust of Australia.

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History & Information About Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy

The Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy is located in Penola, South Australia. It is a place of several religious and cultural significance in Australia, and sacred to many Catholics. The Shrine was founded by Father Julian Tenison Woods, a priest of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, in 1887. Father Woods, along with the help of Mary MacKillop, who also began the Sisters of St Joseph in Penola, created the Shrine to give thanks for healing from an epidemic of typhoid that had effected the local border town of Penola.

The Shrine, a large red brick building, remains a popular Catholic pilgrimage destination. It contains a statue of the Virgin Mary, a crucifix, altar, and other artefacts. It is believed that the Shrine is on a site of special spiritual significance, and many visitors come here seeking spiritual guidance and healing. The shrine is open to visitors for public Mass on weekends and other special occasions.

The Shrine is connected to the legacy of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, who was beatified by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010. She was Australia’s first saint, and was canonised by Pope Francis in 2010. She is remembered for her philanthropic works, leadership and devotion to helping the sick and needy.

The Shrine was listed on the South Australian State Heritage Register in 1994, and is one of South Australia’s most important Catholic sites. Every year, the Shrine hosts a series of special celebrations and religious ceremonies, such as a Pilgrimage of Faith in honour of Father Julian Tenison Woods.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy

Located near the heart of South Australia, the Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy in Penola is a sacred religious site. This beautiful and peaceful Catholic shrine was founded by Avid Mary MacKillop in 1860 and is the original location of the Sisters of St. Joseph. Visitors of this unique and historic site will be guided by the Sisters of St. Joseph who serve the shrine and who provide spiritual and practical services for locals.

Getting There

To get to Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy in Penola, you can take the overland train from Adelaide, South Australia and make a stop at the Penola railway station. There are also daily public bus services to Penola from major neighboring towns. Both the train and the bus will take approximately 4 hours, depending on your location. Once you have arrived at the Penola railway station, the Sisters of St. Joseph will be able to provide transportation to the Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy.

What to Do

When you visit the Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy in Penola, start by exploring the grounds. The grounds are accessible 24 hours a day and visitors are encouraged to explore the gardens, visit the chapel and the museum, and take part in meditative activities. You may also take part in guided tours where you will receive a short history of the site and explanations of the spiritual activities practiced there.

Accommodations

Although it is a pilgrimage site, it is possible to stay overnight at the Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy. Accommodation is limited, but overnight stays must be booked in advance. Accommodations range from bunk beds to a guest house and simple rooms.

Food & Drink

The Sister of St. Joseph provide simple morning tea, lunch and dinner for visitors of the Shrine. All meals are based on the order of Sisters and include light vegetarian dishes and hot beverages. You are also welcome to bring your own snacks and light meals to have while exploring the grounds.

We hope you enjoy your visit to the Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy in Penola, South Australia. Do not forget to take part in the activities and explore the gardens before returning home.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy

Q: What is this Shrine?
A: The Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy at Penola, South Australia is a Roman Catholic Marian Shrine dedicated to Our Lady of Mercy.

Q: Where is the Shrine located?
A: The Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy at Penola is situated in in the south-east of South Australia, 850 kilometres from Adelaide (approx. 8 hour drive).

Q: What can I find at the Shrine?
A: The Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy at Penola consists of a Shrine Church, a grotto, a prayer room, a gift shop and a gallery. There are also nearby attractions such as St. Mary’s Primary school, Penola Catholic Primary school and a golf course.

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: The Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy at Penola is open every day from 8.30am to 6pm.

Q: What services are available?
A: Mass is celebrated daily in the Shrine Church at 8.30am. Other services available include confession, adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Eucharistic prayers and Marian devotions.

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