A new Grotto at St Gerard Majella parish in Mirrabooka has already had a positive and unifying effect for both the parish and the wider community, according to Assistant Parish Priest Fr Antonio Scala.
The new grotto, which replaced the original grotto built in 1986, was borne from a sketch produced by Fr Scala, inspired by grottos found in Italy.
The concept of moving the original one from the side of the church to the front was enthusiastically embraced by parishioners who offered money to make the project possible, Fr Scala shared.
“The new location near the entrance provides people with the opportunity to stop and pray as they enter the church and also as they leave, which was not possible before”, he said.
Once Fr Scala had completed his sketch, he approached builder Angelo Bongiascia from the Kelmscott parish and together they completed building the new structure within three weeks.
The new structure and location not only provides easier access and a sacred place where families and individuals can come to pray, but also features undercover benches which allows shelter and rest for those who gather, Fr Scala said.
The statue of Our Lady of Lourdes from the original grotto has been transferred to the new site, but not before receiving restoration from a parishioner who also provided a new coat of paint to cover the damage caused by smog and candle smoke over the past 28 years.
The new grotto was officially opened on August 3 by Archbishop Emeritus Barry James Hickey, after the statue had been carried in a procession through the local streets while the Rosary was recited.
The grotto has already attracted a lot of interest from the local community according to Fr Scala, not only from parishioners, but also from members of other denominations and religions, such as Hindus and Muslims who have a special devotion to Mary.
“You can often see people finding shelter and praying in the new grotto, alone or with families,” he shared.
“Making requests for their needs and entrusting themselves and their intentions to our Heavenly Mother.”