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Gathering at the Grotto

Gathering at the Grotto

This has become one of our favorite event series ever—a vibrant, laid-back way to build community and introduce others to the Catholic faith in a joyful, welcoming environment.

It all began in the summer of 2017, when we hosted our inaugural Gathering at the Grotto series, focused on Catholic Reflections on the Protestant Reformation. Fr. Brian Larkin, along with specially invited guests, led engaging talks on fascinating subtopics, sparking thoughtful conversation and deep reflection.

Each night, the grotto lawn came alive with brats, beverages, and a beautiful mix of parishioners and visitorsgathered under the stars. The crowd often spilled beyond the lawn as people came to learn, connect, and grow in faith together.

Since then, Gathering at the Grotto has grown into something truly special—a tradition we look forward to every year, where faith, fellowship, and fun go hand in hand.

It’s completely free to attend—though donations are always welcome and appreciated if you feel called to give!

Never been to one of our Gatherings at the Grotto?

Catch up with the videos, below!

Gathering at the Grotto, 2023

Eucharistic Revival

Nathan Crankfield

The Eucharist: What Sets Us Apart

Joshua Revelle

The Eucharist as Sacrifice, Presence, and Communion

Gathering at the Grotto, 2022

The Marian Series

Mary & Christian Receptivity

Dr. Susan Selner-Wright, Archbishop Charles Chaput Chair of Philosophy, July 28, 2022

Mary, Our Guide

Fr. John Nepil, from the Catholic Stuff You Should Know Podcast
August 25, 2022

The Marian Series Continues, September 15, 2022

Michael Van Hecke, President and Founder of The Institute for Catholic Liberal Education, coming September 15, 2022… Don’t miss it!

Gathering at the Grotto, 2021

Marriage

Catholic Dating & Marriage

Chris & Natalie Stefanick, June 24, 2021

Marriage

Mike & Alicia Hernon of the Messy Family Project (Podcast)
July 21, 2021

Finding and Following God’s Mission for Your Family & Children

By Annie & Scott Powell, Founders of Camp Wojtyla

Rational Worship in the Modern Age—Gathering at the Grotto 2019

The Word of God

Fr. Brian Larkin, July 25

Architecture & Beauty

Adam Hermanson

Dr. Terrence C. Wright, June 28

Dorothy Day

Fr. Brian Larkin, July 26

Henri de Lubac & the Obedience of Faith

Dr. Edward Sri, August 16

St. John Paul II & the Drama of the Modern Church

It’s been 500 years since the Protestant Reformation. What do Catholics make of this? Is there hope for reunification? What can we learn from Protestants? 

Fr. John Nepil

Fr. Michael Rapp

Fr. Brian Larkin

Gathering at the Grotto, 2025

June 26 | July 24 | August 28

Questions about events at Lourdes?

Email Me

Judy Berry

Event Coordinator