Hello friends!
Most of the time, I record my podcasts from the comfort of my studio, but today, I felt inspired to step outside and go live from one of my favorite places on earth: Our Lady of the Island in Manorville, just south of the Long Island Expressway at exit 70.
This Marian shrine holds a special place in my heart. It’s a peaceful retreat for prayer, reflection, and renewal—a place where heaven seems to touch earth. As I walked the grounds today, I wanted to bring you along with me, to share the beauty of this sacred space and the sense of peace it offers to all who visit.
The Shrine of Our Lady of the Island was founded by the Montfort Fathers (Missionaries of the Company of Mary) as a center for Marian devotion. Inspired by St. Louis de Montfort’s teachings, it was established through the vision of Fr. Roger Mary Charest, SMM, and Fr. Francis Tomai, SMM. The land was generously donated by the Vigliotta family, with additional contributions from the Harrison family, including the rock where the grand statue of Our Lady now stands.
Visitors here can walk the Rosary Path, pray along the Stations of the Cross, or take in the inspiring Avenue of the Saints, where statues of holy men and women line the way. The outdoor Mass area—simply called The Rock—is a powerful place to encounter God’s presence in nature.
I invite you to watch today’s video as I take you on a short journey through this sacred place. Whether you’ve been here before or are just hearing about it for the first time, I hope you feel some of the peace and inspiration that I experienced while recording. Please forgive any bouncy footage, as I was moving around in the bright sunshine today attempting to give you a glimpse at the beauty that surrounded me in the outdoor church!
If you’ve ever been to Our Lady of the Island, I’d love to hear about your experience! Feel free to leave a comment below.
Until next time, Semper ad Lucem! (Always Toward the Light)
— John Henry
Join me for my next live video in the app
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