The Nativity Grotto is open year round at the Black Madonna Shrine, we are an approved Franciscan site. Catholics will be able to receive a plenary indulgence by praying before a crèche from the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary on December 8th to the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord, Jesus Christ on February 2, 2024. The indulgence was granted by Pope Francis to recognize and celebrate the 800th anniversary of the Rule of St Francis and his creation of the first creche in Greccio, Italy in the year 1223.
