“Twenty thousand believers visit this grotto annually.” That’s what they say about Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine in the Bronx. It’s a replica of the famous French shrine. Monsignor Pasquale Lombardo built it hoping to recreate the spiritual experience of Lourdes, France. He wanted locals to experience it without a transatlantic trip.
Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine at St. Lucy’s Church has been a Bronx landmark since 1939. People call it “Lourdes of America”. It offers inspiration and solace to many.
The grotto is thirty feet high. It is made of stacked stones forming a cave. Steps lead to an altar where visitors light candles and pray. A memorial plaque lists the names of deceased parishioners. Benches offer a quiet space for prayer and reflection. A small chapel sells religious items to help with maintenance. St. Lucy’s bell rings each Sunday. It rings with the same tone as the church in Lourdes, France.
Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto is famous for its flowing water. It replicates the natural spring water of Lourdes. The water flows beneath the Virgin Mary statue. People collect the water. They drink it, splash it on their faces or take it home. Some use it to wash their homes or cars.
Though the water now comes from the city, many believe in its healing powers. Stories of miraculous healings abound. One story from 1939 tells of a woman who discarded her metal brace after using the water. The New York Times has reported on the grotto’s alleged healing powers.
People of many faiths visit Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine. Catholics, Protestants, Jews and Muslims come seeking help. During the 9/11 crisis, visitors gathered to pray and drink the water.
Gino Brandolini, an Italian craftsman, hand-cut the stones for the grotto. He wanted it to look like the grotto in Lourdes, France. The grotto has a waterfall. The water brings spiritual and physical healing. The Archdiocese of New York has not investigated the claims. Deep devotion and prayer may bring about the miracles.
Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine remains a powerful sacred space. It offers faith, inspiration and prayer. It is a place that moves hearts and enriches faith.