A Lunch & Learn history series hosted by the Heritage Center kicked off at Nazareth Motherhouse Campus on Tuesday, March 26, exploring the statues and shrines located throughout the campus.
Archivist Kelly McDaniels and Visitor Center Coordinator Michael Smith led the presentation, walking the audience through the interesting histories of the various landmarks.
The Rosary Shrine was built in 1870 by two brothers, Casimir and Frank De Leuil, nephews of Rev. Polydore Fermont, Nazareth Chaplain, 1868-1872, in gratitude for survival in a storm at sea as they came to this country from Belgium. The shrine fell into disrepair but was later restored and a cemetery directory and ink drawings of the Mysteries of the Rosary drawn by Sister Luke Boiarski added.
This statue stands in the middle of Immaculate Conception Lake and was blessed on Aug. 15, 1922. The statue is made of Carrara marble and was placed using a zipline system when the lake was partially filled.
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McDaniels said the series will continue with presentations every few months on different topics, including the history of the buildings and water supply on campus.
Thank you so much for this educational document surrounding the beautiful, inspirational shrines and statues at Nazareth. These works of Holy art bring peace and reverence to us! Knowing the history and story about each one brings extra meaning!
Blessings to SCNs and SCNAs!