Basilica Of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle - National Shrine — Hotel in San Juan

Don't get me wrong, the church is a house of God, and it is very nice. Unfortunately it's the people make of it the type of experience you will have. After so many years I finally came to visit, now as an adult. The church has a different vibe to it, just not holy when you see all that propaganda and stores. At the entrance. Maybe when you go inside it'll feel different. The smell of candles and incense empowers the presence of God. feels really nice. You can feel that he is there. So that part is definitely not a bad thing. I never would have believed it if I wasn't told by the mother herself about the situation she went through with this church. All she wanted was a blessing for her child that passed away right after birth. These people judge and denied the blessing because of certain reasons and because it was in San Antonio. The mother of the child asked this house of God because she had a connection to it. Sadly the church severed it and she never visited again since then. Sad to say that this place has gone down far so low. In the movies that are based off of what Jesus went through during his life. He clearly kicked away all the merchants selling items right by the door step of Gods House. This house literally built more than one shop in the doorstep of Gods house. Not just by the doors , literally inside the house as well. Lets not forget that there is a shop already steps away from the house. They didn't find it good enough that there needed to be more right by the doorstep. To the point that they have an actual promotional sign on top of the doors of the main entrance of Gods house. So sad. Its not enough to place those promotions/signs/announcements at the gift shop. It just needed to be exactly at the main entrance. Don't forget that the tiny candles that are placed right under our golden lady are not free. There is a sign that literally says that its a donation of $1. The same as the price being sold in the shop inside the house of God. "Why call it donation" It's the people that make the church and represent the church. Sadly they ask for a given price as a donation. Maybe they do what other Catholic churches do as well. Asking for $100s of dollars or a given price as donations for Gods services. Not really asking for a legit donation. I like that they made a bigger water fountain dispenser for holy water, but sad that they had to abandon the already holy water fountain dispenser that was available by our mother tile on the side of the building. It was really beautiful and unique. The water even tasted holier for some reason and fresher. I alsays looked up to drinking that magic water every visit. Sadly, It was closed and abandoned. There was no need for that. Infact they should have added more water dispensers in that same area instead of building that ugly looking shop in front of it. Ugh... The anounments right above the entrance really repulsed me. All the ugly parking lot and removal of trees and grass from the front made it look more... i don't know what would be a proper word. It was not enough to build a huge parking lot in the front. Why didn't they do that to the side, instead the beautiful scenery that made it more homely and relaxing as a house of God was completely demolished. Whoever designed all these changes didn't have God in there hearts. Instead had more money grubber ideas than...

A Spiritual Oasis of Peace and Devotion. The Basilica Of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle - National Shrine is a truly remarkable place that I had the privilege of having in the RGV. From the moment I stepped foot onto the sacred grounds, I was overwhelmed by a profound sense of peace and serenity.

The sheer beauty of the Basilica is awe-inspiring. The majestic architecture, adorned with intricate details and stunning stained glass windows, creates an atmosphere that is both reverential and enchanting. It's evident that great care has been taken to preserve and enhance the spiritual significance of this place.

The devotion and faith exhibited by the visitors and the staff at the National Shrine are truly heartwarming. The sense of community and unity is palpable, and it is evident that this is a place where people from all walks of life can come together in prayer and reflection.

The Basilica offers a wide range of spiritual activities and services, catering to the diverse needs of its visitors. Whether you're attending a mass, participating in a retreat, or simply seeking solace and guidance, there is something here for everyone. The peaceful outdoor spaces, such as the beautiful gardens and grotto, provide a tranquil setting for personal reflection and meditation.

One aspect that truly stood out to me was the warm hospitality extended by the staff and volunteers. They are genuinely welcoming, and their dedication to ensuring a positive experience for every visitor is evident. Their knowledge and enthusiasm for the history and significance of the Basilica adds an extra layer of depth to the overall experience.

The Basilica Of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle - National Shrine is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of hope and inspiration for the valley. It is a testament to the power of faith and the enduring spirit of the human soul. Whether you're a devout Catholic or simply someone seeking a moment of solace and reflection, this sacred place will leave an indelible mark on your heart.

I wholeheartedly recommend visiting the Basilica Of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle - National Shrine. It is a sanctuary of peace and devotion, where you can connect with your inner self and experience a profound sense of...

This is the most beautiful, moving place to visit that I have ever seen. MUST go down hallway to right....you feel the warmth increasing as you pass the glass window of the candle room........the prayers of the people to our Lord ! Then pass around BEHIND the altar to the MEMENTO ROOM on the left rear side.

Never seen anything like this room in my life, and I am old now! Crutches, casts, locks of hair, pictures, photos, medals, mementos, notes, prayers......all seeking the Lord's help or praising Him for what He has done. The tears, joys and praise of the people is miraculous in itself. You cannot leave this room unmoved.

I will never forget it. It is part of what led me into the Catholic church years ago. The "Show, Don't Tell" way. You do not have to be any particular kind of smart or educated or popular or good-looking.........all sorts meet Him with what they have. You all have what the first followers had over 2000 years ago, 1500 years before they even had Bibles. The Spirit of Jesus in us. The access to God, our Father by prayer.

The lifesize bronze Stations of the Cross outside are gorgeous and moving as well. and the bronze doors, grounds, everything. Beautiful. Open to the rich and to the poor, the simple and the complex.

But do NOT leave without visiting that room of mementos in the back, behind the altar. A life-changing experience. and a memory that...