by Linda Laughter, Guest Blogger

Portland, Oregon never ceases to amaze me.

We love to visit family there and they are often excited to surprise us with a new wonder. This time it was an early Christmas adventure to The Grotto, The National Sanctuary of our Sorrowful Mother. Set on 62 acres, just 9 miles from downtown, we were surprised to see over 500,000 glowing lights, lit Christmas trees and a life size nativity. The trails are illuminated as you walk a quarter mile immersed in holiday magic. The event runs from late November to December 30.

The Grotto

The center of the property is The Grotto, 30’ wide, 30’ deep and 50’ tall. It was carved into the solid basalt wall in 1925. The idea came from Father Ambrose Mayer, when he first saw the cliff as a young priest. He had made a promise as a young boy to undertake a great work for The Church. Donations were collected and The Grotto began. Much has been added, chapels, trails, meditation areas, but the replica of Michelangelo’s Pieta set in this grotto is the most impressive.

The web site states, “The Grotto continues to grow over the years to meet the needs of the people in an ever-changing world. The dream, work and promise of one man have become the ministry of all who serve here.” When it is lit for the holidays, it is especially beautiful, and at other times of the year, it is open to all to wander the trails and enjoy the extensive botanical gardens.

Link to Web site

The Music

Then there is the music! Some of Oregon’s best local schools, churches and civic groups perform, in the 500-seat chapel or while strolling through the open plaza. A schedule of performances is listed online. We took our chances and heard an amazing chamber quartet sing. You just walk in, relax and the voices resound in this acoustically famous chapel. It is, considered one of the biggest choral events in the country.

The Spirit

There is truly something for everyone. I felt the spirit of community, the joy of happy people, and enjoyed music I knew and some I did not. Colors blurred, lights twinkled and there was a sense of happiness there. All are welcome, for a religious experience or a life experience.

I liked another quote posted as you enter. 

“Let this be a sanctuary of peace for all peoples of the earth and surely in this day a sanctuary is needed. Torn with differences, strife, and grief, the world needs sanctuary where the human spirit can seek peace and consolation.”

Linda is a retired interior designer who lives with her husband Don in Cascade, MI. She loves enjoying her family, friends, art, and travel.

Live is a blessing – Enjoy!