| One of the most important needs of today is
to transform every home into a domestic church - a place to experience
God, a place to speak to Him and live an individual or family life consciously
with Him. In Schoenstatt this need takes on a concrete form in the Home
Shrine - a corner or spot in your own home where the picture of grace of
our Lady of Schoenstatt has a place of honor next to the crucifix. Whoever
decides for a Home Shrine expresses the desire to strive, day after day, to live
the Covenant of Love with Mary. She in turn will transform that home into a
little Shrine, where she can mediate many graces, create a holy family
atmosphere, and form holy family members.
The Home Shrine is one of the greatest
challenges of today's Church. As modern society moves more and more away from
faith and Christian values and morals; as the Church is pushed out of the public
awareness of a town, or a country, then a small oasis of spiritual life
becomes essential. This oasis is the family - the final stronghold. Through the
Home Shrine, Schoenstatt gives an answer to the Church of everyday life. Where
do you find the Church today? It is something you encounter on Sunday, or for
baptisms, marriage or a funeral, but how does the Church have a positive
influence and orientation during an ordinary week?
Through the Home Shrine, God is invited in
a special and conscious way into daily life and becomes the author of a source
of grace and blessing for all who live in our homes and for all who visit there. In the Home Shrine, shelter and peace can be found; important decisions are made;
here is a channel of new courage and strength to meet the challenges of everyday
life; here the Home-Church can grow, become the soul of the family and
transform every aspect of daily family life. From these shrines Christians are
called to build Christ's Kingdom of peace, love, justice and freedom - starting
in their own homes first.
Any member who has been in the movement for
at least two years may have their home dedicated as a Home Shrine. A
priest or deacon will come and bless your Shrine and home.
Please contact one of the
coordinators if you wish to have a home
dedication. Information will be given to you on preparations which must be
made before the dedication.
Dedications are done by appointment only.
Please contact your area coordinator for details.
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