Christmas at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows in Belleville, Illinois, is a magnificent celebration of the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Throughout the holy season, the Shrine hosts an array of activities, spiritual programs, and celebrations to honor Jesus during the time of His birth. The Way of Lights at the Shrine is a yearly display of over one million Christmas lights which tell the story of Mary and Joseph’s journey into Bethlehem.

The Shrine staff is energized about this year’s Christmas celebration. Each year, pilgrims to the Shrine have experienced a wide variety of activities and displays, such as the Interactive Children’s Village, a display of professionally-decorated Christmas trees, a petting zoo, horse-drawn carriages, and much, much more.

This year, Fr. Greg Gallagher, O.M.I., will experience his first Christmas as the Director of the Shrine. Below, he shares a unique “Oblate perspective” of this special time:

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“What’s the meaning of Christmas?” the parish Priest asked the children. Johnny’s hand shot up, and his mother, afraid of what he might say, kindly whispered for Johnny to lower his hand. But it was too late.

Father called on Johnny, who was wiser than most people gave him credit for. Johnny proudly yelled, “God so loved the world that He gave us His only Son!” His classmates clapped while the Priest, along with Johnny’s mother, stood in wonder.

Christmas at the Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows is a real wonder. Throughout the year in Word and love of God and the gift of Christ. Lourdes Grotto, in the freshness of the Annunciation Garden, Jesus the Peacemaker comes. As we strive to offer programming for the faith formation of youth and adults, Jesus the Teacher comes. As we line our trees and streets during the Way of Lights, offering merriment and awe, Jesus the Way comes.*

We tell the story of God’s love for the world especially at Christmastime. And just like the people of old waited and readied themselves for the day, so do we. Decorating committees have formed, extension cords counted and tested, choirs are searching for seasonal favorites, and activities for the children’s village are being prepared by staff and volunteers. Sponsors for decorating Christmas trees are already dreaming and planning of what turns out to be a beautiful Christmas Tree Room.

This year, the Shrine is also offering something new: the story of the Birth of Christ with the context of a laser show. Light and song come together to tell of the Messiah’s promise and birth. This 17-minute show will be shown in the newly remodeled Guild Center at the Shrine. Pilgrims to the Shrine won’t want to miss this spectacular show about how Jesus was born into this world.

As Oblates, we celebrate these days together like a family, without the gift-giving perhaps, but with good cheer. Most of us will be grateful after the pace of the season, things slow down a bit. Ahh – Sabbath! Our time together as Oblates and with the thousands who come to the Shrine this season restores the hope and energies of the message that Jesus is born!

May Christ bless you with His presence this season and through the newyear!

In the love of Our Lady of the Snows,
Fr. Greg Gallagher, O.M.I.

 

NOTE: All of these events start November 15. Indoor activities end on January 1. The lights will remain lit, and the restaurant’s “Way of Lights” buffet will continue through January 6. *Please visit www.snows.org to learn more about the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows and its devotional areas.

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