We're going to Rome!

(CNS photo/Paul Haring)

The Observer's features and multimedia editor Sharon Boehlefeld will be accompanying Msgr. Gerald Kobbeman and other pilgrims on the Rockford Diocese's official pilgrimage to Italy this April for the canonization of Popes John XXIII and John-Paul II.
Watch here starting April 23 as she reports from the trip.

Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation - Carey, Ohio

(Photos/ www.olcshrine.com)

Destination: For 100 years, the Conventual Franciscan Friars have served this church in the Diocese of Toledo, Ohio. Today’s church sits across the street from the original building.
Mass times vary at the Basilica Church. From Nov. 1 through Palm Sunday, Sunday Masses are at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. From Easter through Oct. 31, Sunday Masses are at 8 a.m., 10 a.m. Year-round, Masses are at 7 a.m., 11 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. on Saturdays and at 7 a.m. and 11 a.m. weekdays.
Why to go: Pilgrims have traveled to the basilica and shrine since 1875. Devotion to Mary as Our Lady of Consolation goes back to the second century. The shrine website says, “In 1652, the pope fostered devotion to Our Lady under this title by establishing a confraternity. The devotion spread to the United States, and the first shrine to Our Lady of Consolation was built in Carey, Ohio.” The church commissioned a replica of a statue of Our Lady from Luxembourg, which arrived in 1875. In addition to the basilica, there is also a park where pilgrims may stroll, sit and pray.
Amenities: The shrine includes both a gift shop and a retreat house. Hours of the shop are 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. The shop is also open 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on Sunday, although it closes during 2:30 p.m. devotions. It also closes from noon to 3 p.m. on Good Friday.
(Grand) Kid friendly: Children are welcome to visit. The retreat house even offers retreats for teens.
Info: Address: Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation, 315 Clay St., Carey, OH 43316. Phone: 419/396-7107. Web: www.olcshrine.com

- Compiled by Sharon Boehlefeld
Send your Catholic destinations ideas to seasonedobserver@rockforddiocese.org