Located at 10630 Wicker Avenue (U.S. 41) in St. John, Indiana, The Shrine of Christ’s Passion is a multi-media interactive, half-mile winding Prayer Trail that depicts the last days of Jesus Christ’s life and other important biblical moments. There are over forty sculptures in a tranquil setting, complete with music and sculptured gardens. Chicago broadcaster Bill Kurtis narrates the audio recordings that you hear at listening stations along the path. Local Attractions The Shrine Gift Shoppe/Visitor Center and Café are open year round, daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. The Prayer Trail is also open year round weather permitting. There is no charge to experience The Shrine of Christ’s Passion.
Church groups, schools, seniors, and other groups will find The Shrine of Christ’s Passion a rewarding field trip. A suggestion of 3 to 3 ½ hours gives you time to fully experience the half mile Prayer Trail and Gift Shoppe. Large groups may want to add some extra time. It is also suggested that you contact the visitors center in advance if you would like a guided informational group tour with volunteers that accompany guests and discuss the history of the Shrine. The Shrine of Christ’s Passion also has a limited number of Club Cars and wheelchairs available by reservation. Their paved parking lot also features ample space to park tour buses. The Shrine is located very close to US 30, I-65, and I-94, and only 35 miles from Chicago on US 41. About two and a half hours from Holland, Michigan; and nine hours from Branson, Missouri, this half day trip can be completed on the way to Indianapolis, Milwaukee, and a number of other Midwest tourist attractions. Other info
Some of the featured attractions include Our Lady of the New Millennium, a 33′ tall statue; The Sanctity of Life Shrine, a memorial to victims of abortion; the newly opened Moses at Mount Sinai, with a complete mountain and new path extension to Moses and the 10 Commandments that has music, voice over, lighting, and sound effects; And brand new for 2022 Our Lady of Guadalupe Plaza, where a Grand Ceremony was held in May.
No trip is complete without visiting the Gift Shoppe, a unique 12,000 sq. ft. experience. Many consider The Gift Shoppe at The Shrine of Christ’s Passion to be a destination store for unique gifts and collectibles, as well as its ambiance. You will find inspiring religious items and distinctive gifts, incredible artwork, fine jewelry and accessories. Roman columns and arches accent the main showroom which also houses two fireplaces, hand-painted murals on the ceilings, an art gallery and a library complete with leather chairs for reading. A winding staircase (or elevator) leads to the mezzanine level where it is Christmas year round, including a display of nativity sets by Fontaninni. The attached cafe is a great place to take a break with a cup of coffee, soft drink or a bottle of water and light snacks. As The Shrine of Christ’s Passion is a not-for-profit and does not charge admission, all gift shop and cafe sales help fund the attractions.
If you fall in love after your first visit, you’re in luck as the Shrine now boasts an event space in the upper level of the Gift Shoppe. Hosting up to 54 people and fully equipped with audio Video equipment, the Summit Room can be rented out for Seminars, Bible Studies, Workshops, Business Meetings, Prayer Groups, Wedding and Baby Showers, Birthdays and more occasions.
