The title, requested in August 2024, was confirmed by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
The United States has officially designated the Shrine of Our Lady of Martyrs in the Diocese of Albany as a National Shrine. This title, requested in August 2024, was confirmed by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB).
Standards for National Shrine Designation
Bishop Edward B. Scharfenberger of Albany expressed joy over the designation, stating, “We are very happy that the Bishops have confirmed what the faithful have instinctively known for a long time: the National Shrine of Our Lady of Martyrs is our home for the cultivation of holiness here in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.”
The title was granted after the Bishops confirmed that the shrine aligns with the ‘Standards for the Designation of National Shrines’ as outlined by the USCCB. The non-profit organization ‘Friends of Our Lady of Martyrs’ currently manages the shrine.
Design Inspired by the Roman Coliseum
The shrine church, built in 1930, is designed to resemble the Roman Coliseum, serving as a reminder of the first Christians martyred for their faith. The circular structure is adorned with 70 doors, symbolizing the 70 disciples sent by Christ to proclaim the Gospel in all directions.
With a capacity for eight thousand faithful, the shrine stands as a significant site for pilgrims seeking to deepen their faith and honor the martyrs of the Church.
Compiled by Donna Smolders
