ROYAL OAK — The National Shrine of the Little Flower Basilica will open its doors for Centennial Tours 12:30-3 p.m. Saturday, April 18, inviting everyone — neighbors, historians, parishioners, artists and the entire community — to experience one of Michigan’s most beloved landmarks at 12 Mile and Woodward.
The Centennial Tours event offers a rare opportunity to experience the basilica’s art and architecture up close. These walk-through docent tours will guide visitors through celebrated Art Deco architecture and art with the stories that have shaped the parish and the city of Royal Oak for a century.
Guests will explore the basilica’s soaring sanctuary, intricate artwork, rare Kilgen organ, first-class relics of St. Therese and her parents, and the iconic Charity Tower — a powerful symbol of resilience, faith, and the enduring spirit of the community. Docents will share how the parish, founded in 1926, was the first in the world named for St. Thérèse of Lisieux following her 1925 canonization, and how Shrine grew into one of the largest parishes in the Archdiocese of Detroit.
Visitors can enjoy refreshments and Centennial activities in Heritage Hall, where historical displays, parish stories, and interactive exhibits will celebrate Shrine’s 100 years of faith, community and service. A children’s artwork exhibit and coloring station will be available, along with books and religious items available for freewill donations. The Gift Shop will feature beautifully crafted gifts, including the limited-edition Centennial Rosary, made in Italy and featuring Shrine statuary and images.
“Reaching our Centennial is a moment of gratitude and joy,” said Judy Maten, chair of the Centennial Committee. “These tours are our way of welcoming the community to experience the beauty, courage, and devotion that have shaped the Shrine for generations.” The event is open to all, and no registration is required.
The book “Praying with St. Thérèse of Lisieux,” written by Maten and laid out by Jeanine Twigg, both parishioners, will be available for purchase. Written in celebration of the parish’s 100th anniversary, the book reflects on the spiritual life of St. Thérèse of Lisieux and is filled with beautiful photos of the interior and exterior of the church.
The National Shrine of the Little Flower Basilica is located at 2100 W. 12 Mile Road, Royal Oak, MI 48073.
This article was submitted by the National Shrine of the Little Flower Basilica.
