Throughout its history, the Polish nation has always possessed integrating and uniting factors, leading it to great works and allowing it to endure difficult times. Undoubtedly, one of them is the Lady of Jasna Gora, Our Lady of Czestochowa. Her integrating role for Poles goes far beyond the borders of Poland, reaching wherever in the world the sons and daughters of the Polish Nation found themselves throughout the course of history.

Not far from Chicago, in the neighboring state of Indiana, Polish Salvatorians spread the cult of Our Lady of Częstochowa. Her church was built in 1983 as a votive offering of the Polish community in Chicago, on the occasion of the 600th anniversary of the miraculous presence of the famous image of the “Black Madonna” in Jasna Gora in Czestochowa.

Almost from the very beginning of the church’s existence, the pilgrimage movement began. Our compatriots were already familiar with this place from the earlier cult of Our Lady of Fatima, thus began to come to Merrillville, Indiana, finding there a truly religious atmosphere, cultivation of Polish traditions and customs. Of this pilgrimage movement, a walking pilgrimage, which is rare in the US, deserves special attention. For more than twenty years, a walking pilgrimage from Chicago has been arriving at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Częstochowa in Merrillville, Indiana, following the tradition of pilgrimages to Jasna Góra in Częstochowa.

In this world of conflicts and divisions, this is a valuable testimony to the effort for the unity of the Polish ethnic community in the USA. Traditionally, the pilgrims wish to sacrifice for the Holy Father, Homeland, Polish community, peace in the world and for a civilization of love to prevail among people of all races, languages, cultures and religions.

The spiritual patronage of the pilgrimage is provided by the Salvatorians, assisted in the spiritual service of pilgrims by the Polish diocesan and religious clergy. Holy masses, prayers, religious songs, numerous confessions, conferences preached on the road, all create a unique atmosphere. Only those who have ever participated in pilgrimage can experience it. From the beginning, a huge role in organizing of the pilgrimages is played by the PILGRIMAGE COMMITTEE. Relatively small in numbers, but great with the heart and experience, as well as many wonderful associates and benefactors.

God bless you!

We entrust all of you to our Lord through the mediation of the Lady of Jasna Góra. 

Salvatorian Fathers