The essence of the “Shrine” spirituality could appear somewhat foreign to contemporary thought and culture. In reality, it is a very succinct and gentle way of life. It is a journey based on the prayer of “silence”. This may require a little clarification.

Devotees to Our Lady of Europe recognise the need of communion with God through prayer and the sacraments (MC 3819-20). This prayer envelopes the life of the individual in total humility and surrender and is particularly manifested in the quiet and stillness. In fact, this spirituality is only known to the individual and to God. It is not secretive, it is personal! Many intercessory prayers are offered, yet they remain within the confines of a spiritual relationship and will rightly remain so. After the example of Our Lady of Europe, parading good works or creating a public relations exercise of our own value is considered superfluous and unnecessary. Rather than advertise all the good done, it is considered best to advertise God’s love for all His children. In short, all good that is done, remains within the walls of the Shrine and nothing more, but the singing of God’s praises should resonate to the four corners of the Earth. The apostolate and piety of the Shrine is therefore a silent prayer!

This also honours the many thousands of Christians who give up their lives and their very selves in the labour of the Lord’s vineyard. How many nameless individuals have died or suffered immensely without a word of recognition? To them we also owe our lesser prayer of silence.

The location of the Shrine is attractive to those who seek inner peace and quiet. It is removed from the hassles and noise of daily living. It is a safe-haven for those seeking God in a one to one encounter. It supports a small environment to simply listen; to hear what God has to say. It serves as reminder that prayer not only is talking to God but also listening –the hardest part of prayer!