Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament

Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament, 3224 CR 548, sits on nearly 400 acres of beautiful, tranquil countryside. Mother Angelica, founder of EWTN (Eternal Word Television Network), was inspired to build the temple during a trip to Bogotá, Colombia, in 1995. The architecture of the Main Church, which was completed in 1999, is representative of 13th-century Italian Romanesque-Gothic Franciscan churches and monasteries in Assisi and Umbria. The structure is truly an international work of art thanks to materials, craftspeople and artisans from Alabama and around the world. For instance, marble came from Brazil, Finland, Italy, South Africa and Spain; red jasper came from Turkey; stained-glass windows were made in Germany; exterior limestone composite bricks were made in Canada; and the clay roof tiles were produced in Colombia.

The Lower Crypt Church houses images of the Shroud of Turin. A crèche with a life-size Nativity scene is carved out of a hillside and is meant to be a year-round reminder of the wonder of Christmas. Nearby is the Medieval-style Castle San Miguel, similar to the temple in architectural style. It is intended to inspire visitors to model the honorable and courageous behavior of historic saints and knights. Suits of armor, tapestries, medieval manuscripts, and statues of Saint Joan of Arc and Saint Michael are displayed. Also on the grounds are Stations of the Cross, a 110-foot campanile with a 14-bell carillon, Stations of the Most Holy Eucharist, the John Paul II Eucharistic Center and a replica of the Lourdes Grotto.

Note: Modest attire is requested; sleeveless shirts, tank tops, shorts and skirts/dresses above the knees are not permitted in the Main Church and Lower Church. Temporary apparel is available at the reception desk. Photography is not permitted inside the Main Church and Lower Church, and silence is required.

Picnicking is permitted. Food is available. Time: Allow 1 hour minimum.