National shrine

A National Shrine is a Catholic church or other sacred place which has met certain requirements and is given this honor by the national Episcopal Conference[1] to recognize the church's special historical, cultural and religious significance.

Process

To receive the honor of National Shrine involves a number of steps and certifications. It must first be a Diocesan (or Archdiocesan) Shrine, an honor conferred by the local bishop or archbishop.[2] To become a Diocesan Shrine the subject church must be a place "to which numerous members of the faithful make pilgrimage for a special reason of piety"[3] and exceed other churches in terms of worship, Christian formation and social services.[2] When these requirements are met, the parish petitions the bishop to canonically elevate the church.[2]

When devotion has grown, the Diocesan Shrine may petition the national Conference Catholic Bishops. Evaluation by the nation’s bishops will involve considerations including canon law, liturgy, and doctrine.[2]

Declaration of an International Shrine is conferred by the Holy See.

Number by country

References

  1. ^ Canon 1231, Code of Canon Law
  2. ^ a b c d Tambuyat, O.P., Adrian, Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe declared National Shrine on May 31, Roman Catholic Diocese of Manilla
  3. ^ Canon 1230, Code of Canon Law