Sorrowful Mother Shrine is grateful for its volunteers
While the staff at the Sorrowful Mother Shrine may be small in number, the opposite is true of the many volunteers who generously give their time and talents. The shrine is situated on 120 acres, with more than 40 grottos scattered along paved pathways that wind through the woods. In addition to the grottos, the grounds include a large outdoor chapel, a smaller indoor chapel, an administrative building, public restrooms, and a gift shop.
Needless to say, maintaining these structures and the expansive grounds requires a tremendous amount of upkeep. The Sorrowful Mother Shrine would not be the tranquil setting it is known for without the dedicated corps of volunteers who assist the staff in keeping everything in excellent condition. Below is a list of volunteer groups and the services they provide:
Liturgical ministers
Because daily Mass is offered at the shrine along with three weekend Masses, there is a need for lectors, servers, and Eucharistic ministers. This need is met by a group of 30 volunteers who serve on a daily and weekly basis.
Lawn mowers and groundskeepers
While the shrine’s maintenance staff oversees mowing and general grounds care, they depend heavily on a regular crew of volunteers who provide weekly mowing services. These dedicated individuals help ensure the grounds remain pristine.
Flower and watering crew
Many compliments are received throughout the summer regarding the beauty of the flowers and landscaped beds across the grounds. As any gardener knows, maintaining flowers is no small task. From planting to frequent watering, pruning, and fall cleanup, many hours are required. Thankfully, this crew is both knowledgeable and diligent in providing the care needed.
Outdoor chapel cleaning crew
Each Friday morning during the spring and summer, a group of volunteers gathers in the outdoor chapel to prepare the space for weekend outdoor Masses. From wiping benches and sweeping floors to cleaning the sanctuary, they ensure the chapel is ready to welcome the faithful.
Gift shop volunteers
The shrine takes great pride in its gift shop. While it is staffed by employees, several volunteers generously offer their time and retail skills to assist customers and help stock merchandise.
One-day retreat volunteers
The shrine has become well known for its monthly one-day retreats, each drawing more than 100 attendees. Volunteers play an essential role in supporting these events and assisting with the many needs that arise.
Seamstresses for the priests and brothers
At times, clergy members require alterations to ensure proper vestment fit. Skilled volunteer seamstresses generously provide expert tailoring services when needed.
Golf cart tours
Many pilgrim groups enjoy guided golf cart tours of the grounds. Knowledgeable volunteers share the history of the shrine while escorting visitors to the various grottos.
Maintaining the Sorrowful Mother Shrine is a significant and ongoing effort. Thanks to the countless volunteers who generously share their time and talents, the shrine continues to reflect God’s peaceful and serene presence in northwest Ohio.