On Oct. 9, the National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion in Champion, WI, celebrated the 164th anniversary of the Blessed Virgin Mary's second and third apparitions to Adele Brise — the only approved Marian apparitions in the United States. While the observance has long been a yearly event, this is the first year the liturgy was marked as a Solemnity. Bishop David Ricken of the Diocese of Green Bay celebrated the Mass with numerous concelebrants.

Over 4,000 people attended the outdoor Mass on the grounds of the Shrine. Five members of the Western Association were present at the Mass and served as representatives of the Order of Malta staffing the Order of Malta’s First Aid and Hospitality Center at the Shrine for the weekend. The members were Bob and Jane Kilmartin, Marice Erickson and Joe and Ann Sanders. Attendees at the morning Mass were treated to a spectacular display of the sun surrounded by a halo, giving it the appearance of a monstrance. Our Lady was indeed making her Son’s presence known for this Mass!

The 2024 pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Champion will be held Thursday, August 8^th thru Saturday, August 10^th.