Story and photos by Anthony Richards
There are so many integral parts that make a trip to the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche in St. Augustine so meaningful, and one of those is the outdoor altar next to the church, which is undergoing a renovation following a blessing and groundbreaking and ceremony on Jan. 30.
Just like much of the Shrine and the City of St. Augustine that surrounds it, there is a deep history to be told at every turn, and the outdoor altar is no different.
“This altar and sanctuary were part of the original construction back in the 1960s and there were many beautiful pilgrimages, Eucharistic gatherings, and weddings that took place over the years,” said Father Timothy Lindenfelser, J.C.L., V.F., rector at the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche.
However, it has been years now since the altar has been used for such celebrations, because it became unsafe due to several stones being either cracked or broken, which has caused them to loosen and tilt back and forth when walked on.
According to Father Lindenfelser, the steps around the side of the altar were also very narrow, which made it difficult for priests if they were incensing.
One of the things that prompted the increased push for renovation was after seeing many ministries hold Jubilee events at the Shrine and were searching for a large gathering area, and often the field next to the outdoor altar was it.
“It just got to where it was too dangerous to use, but it also meant that people were having to use folding tables in the field instead of the beautiful altar,” Father Lindenfelser said.
The money for the project’s entirety was raised as its $60,000 goal was reached during the most recent #IGiveCatholic campaign in December 2025.
Not only will the outdoor altar receive renovation, but the money raised, along with that previously brought in during a fundraising concert, will also go toward upgrading the sound system throughout the Shrine property.
“It’s so exciting that so many people came together to donate the funds needed so that this altar will finally be able to be used once again,” Father Lindenfelser said. “When I was a young priest, I was assigned to the Cathedral, and I did six or seven weddings on that altar. Those are the types of large celebrations that the Shrine will once again be able to have.”
The timing of the outdoor altar’s renovation comes at a perfect time, as it is set to be completed in time for the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage this summer, which will also honor the 250th anniversary of the United States and America, and kickoff its route at the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche on May 24.
