By Sandy Ahlheim
After weeks of being closed due to COVID-19 this spring and summer, the Shrine of Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne located in St. Charles, Missouri, has been open for limited visits by appointment only. Since reopening mid-summer, there has been a steady number of people inquiring to visit. The majority of these pilgrims are new friends of Philippine and many said they “felt called” to visit, to learn about her story, and to spend time praying in the Shrine.
In particular, the first visitor after reopening was someone who happen to drive by the shrine building and shared that he was so drawn to it that he stopped his car and spent time praying outside. He later planned another visit and brought his entire family for the tour, to share in his new devotion to Philippine. The summer visitors have included numerous family groups, young people discerning religious life, priests, seminarians and other individuals who were looking to deepen their relationship with God by spending time with Philippine. For more information on planning a visit, click here.
Sandy Ahlheim is the Shrine Director of the Shrine of Saint Philippine Duchesne