This magnificent church is located about an hour's drive east of Quebec City, along the Saint Lawrence River. It is a major pilgramage destination. Pilgrams have been coming here since 1668 because of the miracles that have been attributed to this place. Pope John Paul II is among the pilgrims who have been drawn to this spot.
The principal reclic located within this church is a complete forearm bone believed to be from Sainte Anne, mother of the Virgin Mary.
The huge columns located near the back of the Basilica are literally covered with crutches, braces and other medical equipment no longer needed by believers who were healed at Ste.-Anne-du-Beaupre'
The original Scala Santa or Holy Stairway is the staircase which Jesus ascended during His Passion while proceeding to Pilate's pretorium. That staircase is still in existence. It was moved from from Jeruselem to Rome and placed within the Basilica of St. John Lateran. During the last century, it became the custom in many parts of the Catholic world to erect staircases similar to the Scala Santa in Rome as a place of veneration and prayer. These stairs at Ste.-Anne-du-Beaupre' were built in 1891 and were the first such monuments in North America. Like those in Rome, they consist of 28 steps which pilgrims (such as Barb on the left in this photo) ascend on their knees, saying a prayer on each step.
The hillside above the basilica has a winding path the features the Stations of the Cross depicted in lifesize bronze figures. It is beautiful and inspirational.
Check out these links:
Le Cote de Beaupre'
Mont Ste.-Anne
(A great ski resort with summer activities as well.)
