Interior of the Shrine

The Shrine is filled with symbols which remind us of the supernatural and its unseen realities. Move mouse over the picture to show detail of the features.

The wooden tabernacle doors, with wheat and grapes carved in relief, point to Jesus Christ who nourishes us through the Eucharist. The inner doors (not shown) remind us of the Annunciation when the Immaculate Virgin became the living tabernacle of the Lord.

A specially designed crucifix above the tabernacle, expressing the unity between Jesus and Mary in the work of Redemption, calls us to follow the example of Mary and willingly share in the sufferings of Christ.

Schoenstatt’s picture of grace (MTA picture) also portrays the close union between Jesus and Mary. Mary offers us her divine Son as a blessing for the world.

The Latin inscription in the light frame, “Servus Mariae Nunquam Peribit” which translates “A child (a servant) of Mary will never perish”, reminds us that the Blessed Mother leads us quickly and surely to Christ her son, and through him in the Holy Spirit to the Father.

A dove, as a symbol of the Holy Spirit, is mounted in the centre of the ceiling. It is the Holy Spirit who endowed Mary with the fullness of grace, and who now adorns the Church with his seven-fold gift (Gifts of the Holy Spirit - wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord.) Here in the Shrine, Mary constantly implores the Holy Spirit for us.

We find the Father Symbol above the altar. This ancient sign of the Trinity tells us of God’s provident care and love for his children. It also reminds us to place our trust in him as we strive to fulfill our God-willed task in life.

The picture of grace (MTA picture) is crowned. With the crown we acknowledge that Mary is Queen of heaven and earth.

The altar is ornately carved. The statue of St Peter holding the keys, and St Paul with the sword, flank the crucifix. These two statues reflect the apostolic spirit of the Schoenstatt family.

As the original Shrine was under the patronage of St Michael the Archangel his statue remains part of the Shrine. Its presence assures us of God’s help in the battle against the powers of darkness.

Schoenstatt’s picture of grace (MTA picture) also portrays the close union between Jesus and Mary. Mary offers us her divine Son as a blessing for the world.