If you've ever driven past Gretna on I-80, chances are you've seen it there: an enigmatic, magical-looking building on the hill. At night it is lit from within, making its glass walls glow and adding a further sense of enchantment. This must-see landmark is known as the Holy Family Shine in Nebraska, and it's one of the most unique landmarks in the state.
That beautiful, mysterious building is the Holy Family Shrine. It has been drawing in curious visitors since it opened in 2002.
Being situated in a location that is easily seen from the road but which does not have an obvious direct route only adds to the mystery.
It is definitely worth the effort to find your way there, however. At its highest point, the chapel reaches 49 feet into the sky. Criss-crossing beams of wood above the stone entryway resemble stalks of grain, symbolic of the "bread of life."
The inside of the Holy Family Shrine in Nebraska is a quiet, contemplative place. It is a refuge from the outside world where one can go to be alone with his or her thoughts or prayers.
At the far end of the chapel, the image of the Holy Family is etched into a tall pane of glass, watching over the chapel. Looking at the etching from inside, the figures appear to be looking down from the sky.
A single stream of water which begins outside flows into the chapel, splitting at he entrance and running beneath the floor in twin channels that follow the rows of pews.
The water's destination is the space beneath the elevated limestone altar. The Holy Family is above the altar and the tranquil pool of water is below.
Step back outside and a path leads to the small visitor's center. The building looks almost like a natural feature, being set into the earth and surrounded by stone, soil, grass, and flowers.
The small stream of water continues here, flowing into a central water feature in the floor.
The delicate glass structure appears ephemeral from a distance, but it is solidly built and ultimately comforting.
The Holy Family Shrine in Nebraska is intended to be a place of prayer and reflection. The facility is not available for weddings, baptisms, retreats, or other events. Its purpose is to invite spiritually-minded people to come and reflect in this place that seems so close to heaven.
Whether you are a Catholic looking for divine inspiration or an admirer of impressive architecture, the Holy Family Shrine deserves a visit. To get there from I-80, take exit 432 and go south on Hwy 31 for about 1.5 miles. Turn right and drive west on Pflug Rd for about 1.5 more miles. The Shrine will be on the right. For additional information about when you can visit the Holy Family Shrine in Nebraska, be sure to visit the official website.
For another unique destination in Nebraska, check out this place!
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