Feast of Assumption expected to attract thousands to events

8/13/2005

Thousands of visitors are expected at the Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation in Carey, Ohio, for the annual Feast of the Assumption of Mary on Monday and the last day of the

novena tomorrow .

The observance, which began Aug. 6 with daily Masses and devotions, is the largest celebration at the shrine. The feast celebrates the Blessed Virgin Mary s bodily assumption into heaven.

Tomorrow and Monday, Masses will be celebrated in various locations in English, Chaldean, and Italian. Services begin at 8 a.m. tomorrow and at 7 a.m. on Monday.

A candlelight procession will begin at 9 p.m. tomorrow from the Basilica to Shrine Park, where Auxiliary Bishop Robert Donnelly will celebrate Mass. For people who cannot walk in the procession,

Mass will be held in the Upper Basilica at 9:30.

On Monday, a 2:30 p.m. Rosary procession to Shrine Park will end with devotions and benediction. The Rev. Peter Damian, the minister provincial of the Conventual Franciscan Province of Our Lady of Consolation, will preside.

For more information, call 419-396-7107 or check online at www.olcshrine.com.