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The 25th anniversary of the Shrine to the Unborn will be Monday at 6 p.m. Mass with Bishop Michael Fisher, will be celebrated at the Shrine, located in St. Mary's Cemetery, Bennett Road, Route 60, Dunkirk.
It was in 1996 that the Revs. Gerald P. Sheehan and Robert G. Beiter began discussing the creation of a Shrine of remembrance for all babies unfortunately lost through unwanted pregnancies. Meetings began with local clergy, businessman and most importantly, the various councils and assemblies of the Knights of Columbus of Northern Chautauqua County.
The Rev. Thomas J. Wopperer, then Pastor of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, presented the idea of the Shine to the Board of St. Mary's Cemetery. All were in favor and donated the ground on which it was built. The Knights of Columbus financed the granite monument which Mark Woolley of Riles & Woolley Monuments in Forestville, NY was commissioned to create. Funds came in support from churches of all faiths, business organizations and private citizens to complete this Garden of Life.
On July 12, 1998 the dedication of the Shrine to the Unborn took place with Bishop Henry J. Mansell presiding. Local priests and the Knights of Columbus Color Corp assisted with many religious groups and local supporters attending.
The Shrine to the Unborn still stands as a memorial to those children who have been aborted. It has become a site in this area for women who have had abortions and others who have participated in abortions to visit, spend time with God and find peace. This site welcomes all those seeking answers, to come, meditate and find God's direction. It is a Garden of Life!
This year, the Pro-Life Committee of Chautauqua County, invite residents to join this celebration of life to commemorate the babies lost and the men and women who have cared for this Shrine for 25 years.
Following the Mass in the cemetery, all are invited to join in a reception at the St. Gianna Pregnancy Center, located in the old school of St. Anthony's Parish at 33 Cushing St. in Fredonia. The Center is at 32 Moore Ave. Fredonia. The parking lot entrance is on Cushing Street.