On August 27, 1998, the sainted Pope John Paul II proclaimed the National Shrine of the Little Flower a Basilica. As such, August 27 is observed as one of our designated Red-Letter Days.

*Red-Letter Days are celebrated at major and minor Basilicas, one of which is our very own Little Flower Basilica. The faithful who devoutly attend Mass at Little Flower Basilica may obtain a plenary indulgence under the conditions that they also make sacramental confession, receive Eucharistic Communion during the Mass, and pray for the intentions of the Supreme Pontiff (Pope Leo XIV).

For August, Pope Leo’s intention is for evangelization in the city: that in large cities often marked by anonymity and loneliness we find new ways to proclaim the Gospel, discovering creative paths to build community.