OUR LADY OF THE
ROSARY SHRINE
The Shrine is open all year for personal prayers and meditations. The Rosarian priests are available at the shrine for confession and spiritual direction. On Shrine Days Holy Mass is celebrated in the centre of the Rosary Trail, on the site of the first church which was built in 1855. Each year Shrine Days are celebrated July 2, 13, 16, August 13-22, and September 12, 13, 14 and 15.
In 1995, three ladies of the parish were given permission by the parish priest to start a Rosary Trail in the wooded area behind the church and cemetery. Thanks to many donations, dedication of hours of work and prayer of numerous volunteers, what began as “Our Lady’s Garden” has now become the home to Our Lady of the Rosary London Diocesan Shrine.
The original Diocesan Shrine was located in St. Mary’s, Ontario, since it’s construction in 1954 and official dedication by Bishop Cody in 1963. At the close of the 1998 celebrations, Bishop Sherlock then moved the site to St. Patrick’s Church in Merlin.
Our Lady of the Rosary Shrine requires many dedicated volunteers to perform a variety of roles. Shrine Volunteers are passionate people who freely provide their time and energy to support the great work, beauty and growth of our Shrine.
If you are interested in assisting pilgrims from all over the region or in helping from behind the scenes, and nourishing one’s own spiritual life, maybe adopting a shrine garden, please consider becoming a volunteer. Contact
A WORK OF MERCY
On the evening of Tuesday, August 13, 2024, about 14 members of the Chatham Young Adult Group, under the direction of Father John Jasica, came to Our Lady of the Rosary Shrine. They asked, “We would like to do a work of mercy.” While there, they worked for an hour and a half in the Shrine area, prayed a Rosary and shared aspects of the Faith.
*That was so generous of your time. God Bless you.*
SHRINE DAYS
✣ PILGRIMAGE
There are four beautiful trails to experience: “The Rosary Trail”, “The Saints Trail” (featuring over 90 statues), “The Approved Apparitions Trail” and “The Stations of the Cross Trail”. Lighting is installed throughout the Shrine grounds. There is a picnic area and washrooms available. We invite you to bring your own picnic lunch and lawn chair. The Gift Cabin, now called “The Sanctuary”, will be open during Shrine Days for all your religious needs.
If you are planning a group visit, please contact the Office at 519-689-7760. We welcome schools and any groups for retreat days. Contact us for more information and dates available.
See EVENTS CALENDAR to view ALL events happening at the Church & Shrine.
NO PETS ALLOWED: Service Animals specifically trained to aid a person with a disability are welcome.
THE SANCTUARY: Gifts & Books of Faith Store
(originally The Gift Cabin) located near Shrine entrance.
“For all your faith based needs”
Opened only on Shrine Days 10:00am – 3:00pm
(or visit The Sanctuary online from their store in Kingsville )
EVENTS CALENDAR 2025
LATEST SHRINE NEWS
Dear Parishioners and Friends of St. Patrick Church and Shrine 2024
As we enter the holy season of Advent, we are reminded of the power of hope, especially in this challenging yet grace-filled year of 2024. Despite the trials we may have faced, this year has also brought countless opportunities to witness God’s love and faithfulness in our lives and in our parish community.
Advent calls us again to prepare—not only outwardly through traditions like decorating, shopping, and gift-giving, but also inwardly, by renewing our hearts and minds for Christ. Let us take time in these weeks to reflect on the blessings of the year and seek God’s presence as we journey toward the celebration of Jesus’ birth.
As we approach the Year of Jubilee in 2025, this year invites us to lay the groundwork for renewal through acts of mercy, forgiveness, and reconciliation. The Jubilee theme of “Pilgrims of Hope” challenges us to grow deeper in our faith and to be bearers of hope in a world in need.
This year, we have been especially blessed as faithful people to come together in worship, service, and community. Whether it was through moments of prayer, acts of charity, or shared celebrations, we have seen the light of Christ shine through one another. Let this Advent be a continuation of that spirit of unity and love.
We pray that this season fills you and your family with renewed faith, enduring hope, and the peace of our Lord. May your journey through Advent, Christmas, and into the New Year be a time of grace and spiritual growth.
May God bless you and your loved ones abundantly.
In Christ’s love and Mother Mary
The Rosarian Fathers
Have you checked out the section WAYS TO GET INVOLVED? (located on the Home Page) There will be more topics coming as “things open up”. In the meatime check out the one called PRAYER. There are weekly prayers and monthly devotions.