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HOLY PLACE OF MARY’S FAVORS
Since 1875, countless pilgrims have journeyed to the Basilica and
National Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation in Carey, Ohio, to offer
prayers of thanks and to confide their needs to the Mother of God
as Mary, Consoler of the Afflicted.
Devotion to Mary under this title dates back to the second century
and was among her earliest titles of honor. In the 17th century,
as plague ravaged the population of Luxembourg, the people formed
a special union with Mary, Consoler of the Afflicted.
An image of her was enshrined in a small chapel built on the outskirts
of town and many favors were authenticated among visiting pilgrims.
In 1652, the Pope fostered devotion to Our Lady under this title
by establishing a confraternity.
The devotion eventually spread to the United States, where the
first shrine to Our Lady of Consolation was built in Carey, Ohio.
A replica statue was commissioned and arrived from Luxembourg in
1875. Cures and healings continue to take place to the present day
through the intercession of Our Lady of Consolation.
 THE
CONVENTUAL FRANCISCAN FRIARS OF THE PROVINCE OF OUR LADY OF CONSOLATION
In 1911, Bishop Schrembs of Ohio requested Franciscan Friar, Father
Aloys Fish, to investigate more closely the devotion of the faithful
visiting the Shrine.
Father Aloys wrote to the Bishop describing his experiences at
the Shrine as “overwhelming!” The next year, Bishop
Schrembs invited the Franciscan Friars to move permanently to Carey.
To this day, the Conventual Franciscan Friars are present at the
Shrine and serve in several surrounding parishes, ministering to
the needs of the faithful. We continue to care for the countless
pilgrims who visit the Shrine.
We welcome your visit to the Basilica and National Shrine and
invite you to participate in our prayers and good works.
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