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November 23, 2022When visiting the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine, scheduled to be dedicated on Feb. 17, 2023, the museum and gift shop will be the first steps on a pilgrim’s journey. Visitors will have the opportunity to glimpse into his life and to purchase unique items that honor his martyrdom.
“What makes the museum unique is Blessed Stanley Rother himself: the story of an ordinary martyr. The museum will highlight different stages of his life, including the early stages of his life, journey of faith, formation years in seminary and his martyrdom. But most importantly, the museum tells the story of faith, perseverance and trust in the Lord. Blessed Stanley Rother is a great example to follow in these times,” said Vanessa Baquera, Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine gift shop and museum manager.
“There is more than one single item that stands out at the museum. I think the people in Guatemala stand out the most. Their hard work, kindness and need for a pastor to shepherd them. Blessed Stanley Rother’s time in Santiago Atitlan was far from idyllic, but was absolutely joyful. He understood their human frailties and quickly learned to appreciate the Tz’utujil generosity, faith and colorful culture. He simply fell and stayed in love with the people to the point that, even after he returned to the United States because his life was in danger, he had to go back,” explained Baquera.
According to Baquera, the museum will be in zones. Zone one will first tell the story of his journey of faith and growing up in Okarche with his family. It will include his years as a seminarian and the struggles he encountered.
Zone two will familiarize pilgrims with the Guatemalan people and culture, who Blessed Stanley Rother loved and returned to, as well as his martyrdom. Visitors will understand the war that was taking place at that time in Guatemala and how it affected the people.
Zone three will focus on “a call to holiness,” and will focus on Blessed Stanley Rother’s beatification and the journey that has led to the shrine.
“That is how the museum ends – by asking the question, ‘what is God calling on you to do?’ I think the whole museum will be impactful,” said Baquera.
Groups and schools also are invited to tour the museum and can be accommodated by calling the pilgrimage coordinator. No reservations are needed to tour the museum, and walk-ins are welcome.
The museum is self-guided. There will be many monitors to give information and in-person staff on hand to answer any questions. A guided tour can also be provided.
The gift shop will offer visitors the opportunity to purchase custom statues, medals, rosaries, candles, Guatemalan items and apparel featuring Blessed Stanley Rother and Our Lady of Guadalupe, books, DVDs and more. Plus, a variety of other religious articles and devotional items.
“The Blessed Stanley Rother gift shop will be a unique shopping experience with items telling the story of an ordinary Oklahoma priest from Okarche who became a martyr and who didn’t run at the first sign of danger,” said Deacon Norman Mejstrik, director of the Cause for the Canonization of Blessed Stanley Rother.
The museum and gift shop will have the same hours as the shrine. Currently, items related to Blessed Stanley Rother can be purchased at rotherstore.com. More information about the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine can be found at rothershrine.org.
Jolene Schonchin is a freelance writer for the Sooner Catholic.
