Christmas Tree Lighting & Blessing at Martyrs’ Shrine

Christmas Tree Lighting & Blessing at Martyrs’ Shrine

MIDLAND, ON | Saturday, November 22 – The Martyrs’ Shrine is illuminating the largest lit tree in Simcoe County again this winter as they host the second annual Christmas Tree Lighting & Blessing. Many communities have a tradition of gathering for the first lighting of the town’s Christmas tree. The Martyrs’ Shrine invites all to come and celebrate the lighting of the 85 ft. Christmas tree in front of the historic Shrine Church. To begin this season of light, celebrate at Martyrs’ Shrine with a special prayer service, warm cider, and carols led by the Vox Huronia Community Choir. A blessing will be provided for visitors to take home for when they put up and decorate their tree. Take a piece of the Shrine home with you, as the annual Martyrs’ Shrine calendar will be available for purchase. The evening of celebration also includes the Church bells chiming festive carols to add to the already beautiful atmosphere of the large lit Christmas tree, Shrine Church, and good company.

Media Opportunity:
What: Christmas Tree Lighting & Blessing
Where: Martyrs’ Shrine, 16163 Highway 12 West, Midland, Ontario L4R 4K6
When: Saturday, November 22nd at 6:30 p.m.
Who: Jesuits and staff of the Martyrs’ Shrine celebrating with the local community

Martyrs’ Shrine is the National Shrine to the Canadian Martyrs, celebrating its 88th season, and is a ministry of the Jesuits in English Canada. This ‘house of prayer, home of peace’ honours the Jesuit missionaries and their companions who lived, worked, and died here over 350 years ago. It is located in Midland, Ontario, in the heart of the Huron Confederacy of the 17th century. More than 100,000 visitors from around the world and from all cultural backgrounds are welcomed to the Shrine’s 75-acre landscaped grounds each year.
For more information, visit www.martyrs-shrine.com.

For More Information:
John Zurakowski
Martyrs’ Shrine (705) 526-3788 jzurakowski@martyrs-shrine.com