For over 25 years the Shrine guards have had an important role at Our Lady of the Roses, Mary Help of Mothers Shrine. Originally the guards were intended to protect Heaven's seer, Veronica of the Cross, from the threatening protestors at St. Robert Bellarmine Church.

When the Rosary Vigils were moved to the Vatican Pavilion Site in Flushing Meadows Park, the duties of the Shrine guards expanded to include:

• maintaining peace and order at the sacred grounds

• looking out for the safety of the pilgrims

• helping the Vigil Coordinator to conduct the Rosary Vigils by leading Rosaries and litanies and also to help him organize processions

• helping pilgrims into and out of the infirm circle

• accepting the petitions and roses from pilgrims and placing them at the feet of Our Lady

• setting-up and breaking-down the Shrine equipment for every Holy Hour and Rosary Vigil

• assisting pilgrims in their special needs

• answering questions

• maintaining the cleanliness of the sacred grounds

• guarding Our Lady's statue and other Shrine equipment from harm

We also help shuttle pilgrims to the local subway, train and bus after every Rosary Vigil and Holy Hour.

Many Shrine guards had the distinguished honor of protecting Veronica of the Cross. They would help bring her safely into and out of the excedra when she would come to the sacred grounds to receive a message from Heaven. Veronica had received many serious death threats. Jesus and Our Lady often mentioned how the Shrine guards prepared the grounds well and protected Veronica.

When you come to the Shrine you can easily identify the guards by their white shirt, blue tie and white beret.  They are always there to welcome you to Our Lady of the Roses Shrine, which is, of course, staffed and directed by St. Michael's World Apostolate.

All Shrine guards believe that it is truly a special honor to serve Our Lady at Her oasis of grace under the glorious title of Our Lady of the Roses, Mary Help of Mothers.

To see the photo gallery of Shrine guards, click here.