Basilica of the National Shrine of St. Ann facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Basilica of theNational Shrine of St. Ann |
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 Location in Pennsylvania
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| 41°24′8.67″N 75°41′29.43″W / 41.4024083°N 75.6915083°W | |
| Location | 1233 St. Ann St. Scranton, Pennsylvania |
| Country | United States |
| Denomination | Catholic Church |
| History | |
| Founder(s) | Passionists |
| Dedicated | April 2, 1929 |
| Architecture | |
| Functional status | Minor Basilica/National shrine |
| Architectural type | Romanesque Revival |
| Groundbreaking | 1927 |
| Completed | 1929 |
| Administration | |
| Diocese | Scranton |
The Basilica of the National Shrine of St. Ann is a special Catholic Church building located in Scranton, Pennsylvania. It is known as both a Minor Basilica and a National Shrine. This means it has been given important titles by the Catholic Church because of its history and significance.
Contents
History of the Basilica
Building the First Church
The first church on this spot was a temporary chapel. It was built in 1902 by a group of priests and brothers called the Passionists. They wanted a place for their monastery and for people to worship.
The Current Building
The beautiful building you see today was finished later. It was officially opened and dedicated on April 2, 1929. This means it has been a place of worship for almost 100 years!
Becoming a Basilica and Shrine
The church received a very special honor on October 27, 1997. Pope John Paul II, who was the leader of the Catholic Church at the time, declared it a Minor Basilica. This title is given to churches that are very important for their history, art, or spiritual significance. It also became a National Shrine, meaning it's a significant place of prayer and pilgrimage for people across the country.
What Happens at St. Ann's?
The Annual Novena
Every year, the Basilica of St. Ann holds a special event called a solemn novena. A novena is a series of prayers or services held over nine days. This particular novena honors St. Ann, who is believed to be the mother of Mary (Jesus's mother).
Pilgrims and Visitors
Thousands of people, called pilgrims, visit the Basilica each year for the novena. They come from many places to pray, reflect, and seek spiritual comfort. It's a very important time for many people who have faith in St. Ann.
See also
In Spanish: Basílica del Santuario Nacional de Santa Ana para niños
