St. Joseph's shrine

We recently took a little day trip & on our way home we decided to go to this small town that has a shrine called St, Joseph's Shrine. Sean told me that his parents would bring them there around Easter when he was younger.
In the 30's members of the Catholic church built this shrine & dedicated it to St. Joseph because he was the "foster" father of Jesus Christ and the head of the Holy House of Nazareth. They felt that children were not receiving the kind of direction and love they needed in a proper house raised with God. If it was true then, think of how true that statement is now!! It was very interesting. The sign at the front gate says that it is to be treated like a place of worship & is for all denominations.
It is a series of statues of Christ from the Last Supper to the Ressurection, placed along a pathway built out of a mountain. Amazing. I can't imagine even beginning to figure out how to do something like this.
It begins with a statue of Josph holding the Christ Child. "The statue depicts Joseph returning home from his work. Still carrying some of his tools, he has lifted the Holy Child into his arms. Through his fine example of faithfulness and devotion to those in his care as head of the Holy Family in Nazareth, St. Joseph is the perfect model for all parents. The Shrine stands as an appeal to all people to promote spiritual peace, harmony and love in their own homes. Beyond the statue of St. Joseph, a beautiful rustic path beckons you to walk with Jesus through His last days on earth (from the websight)"
The Last Supper

climbing the mountain

in the Garden

there was a series of crosses that had plaques that told the story of Christ's journey to the cross.

the very top of the mountain- Christ on the cross.

then you begin down the mountain and come across Mary holding Jesus.

and then find Him in the tomb

and the end.. the Resurected Savior in front of the tomb.

Sean pointed out to me that Christ was standing on a skull, symbolizing His triumph over death.

It was also interesting that at the time they built this, there was not a easy way to come visit it & they had to make huge trips to get to it.

We really appreciated the amazing statues and life of Jesus depicted.