National Shrine of St Mary of the Angels — Attraction in North Island

Had a terrible and disgusting experience a while ago at this Church .Should have posted it immediately after that .i went for a movie night screened at the crib(on the basement of this church)with the young group of parishioners .They organise this event seldom(not sure how frequent)I got to know about this event through an acquaintance of mine.I was told about how this event works .So I carried some cookies with me as I got to know that other attendees will bring something (like a potluck).I arrived late maybe 20 minutes or more .I watched the movie (Tom Hanks starring) and once it finished I had conversations with others and I unpacked my cookies and put it out with other snacks/delicacies that was already out on plates during the movie.When I was about to leave,I grabbed the cookies I Bought(leftover) with me as everyone else was about to leave .when I took them one girl named”Sophie” (in her late 20s or early 30s) showed up and confronted me and told me this is for the choir to have it next day,She was clearly RUDE and she thought I am taking this away (she would have thought I was grabbing them brought by someone else).Regardless of what she thought it was very MEAN and pure arrogance.she is in her late 20s/early 30s,Caucasian.I couldn’t handle the situation at that moment I was not aware of what’s going on .She could have politely told me even if she had a misunderstanding.She insulted me infront of others.I was taking back ONLY what I bought. Later I came to know she is not a church regular but she is part of the CHOIR(not sure if she’s a regular member)

It was quite RACIALLY MOTIVATED.She thought I am grabbing the leftover and judged me. Her name is Sophie if I am not mistaken.(I found out her name through someone)

Such a shame that some MEAN PEOPLE COME TO a Place of Worship.

After this bitter incident I didn’t feel like going to this...

My husband and I went to mass here during our honeymoon last year.

Pros: -Beautiful architecture. -The choir was one of the best I've ever heard- especially on a normal, ordinary time Sunday.

Cons: -Too many Extraordinary Ministers. It was excessive. -There were only two Altar Servers. One of them showed up late and tried sneaking in the back before the gospel reading. That being said, neither server really did anything during mass. If you want them to take the role seriously (and maybe even discern a vocation), please give them responsibilities. -The overall attitude of the priest seemed "casual." I'm not sure what other word to use to describe it. Everything felt off. There was such a stark contrast between the formal/beautiful architecture and music compared with the casualness of everything else.

This church broke my heart a little bit. It was clearly an aging congregation, and the pews were mostly empty. We were some of the youngest in attendance that Sunday. I think I saw just one family with...

This church was absolutely beautiful, and I felt truly blessed to be able to attend a wedding here.

It’s such a peaceful and prayerful space, perfect for taking a moment to reflect and soak in the presence of God. The acoustics inside were amazing too, making the music during the ceremony even more moving.

The priest and the community were incredibly welcoming, which made the whole experience even more special. You could really feel the warmth and hospitality of the parish.

Another bonus was the great location—there are plenty of nearby cafés if you want to catch up with friends or family after Mass or a special occasion.

Overall, a truly beautiful and memorable church that I’d be happy to...