Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes
History of the Grotto
Father Joseph Moylan, after a trip to our Lady of Lourdes in France, was inspired to build a replica in Two Inlets, Minnesota, where he was pastor of St Mary's Catholic Church.
In 1959, construction of the Grotto began and was made possible with the help of much prayer and the work of local parishioners of St Mary's and the community who offered their talents and financial assistance to see the project through. The extra care taken in the construction of the Grotto proved to be worth the effort, and the finished Grotto remains today as a memorial dedicated to the pastors who have served the St Mary's community over the years.
The beautiful life-size statues of Our Lady of Lourdes and Bernadette at the Grotto, made of bianco carrara marble, are the work of a renowned Italian sculptor.
Since the Way of the Cross is such and integral part of the devotional setting in France, the Stations of the Cross are also part of the Two Inlets Grotto.
In April, 1981, Fr Alto Butkowksi, then pastor at St Mary's, proposed expanding the Grotto to include a Rosary Shrine. Thus, the Rosary Shrine, with its large Rosary designed for Living Rosary devotions, was incorporated into the Grotto area and dedicated on July 10, 1981.
We invite you to the Grotto. Enjoy the beauty of God's creation as you walk the grounds, and be refreshed in mind and spirit.
"All are welcome in this place"
St Mary's Catholic Church
55744 Cty Hwy 44, Park Rapids, MN 56470
218-732-4046
