40 Hours Devotion

On March 12-14, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception will once again host the annual Lenten practice of 40 Hours Devotion. During the 40 Hours Devotion, the Blessed Sacrament is exposed on the altar in solemn adoration for 40 hours.

The 40 Hours Devotion will begin with the Opening Mass on Thursday, March 12, at 5:15 p.m.* The Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, Archbishop for the Military Services, USA, will celebrate the Opening Mass. The observance will conclude with the Closing Mass celebrated by His Eminence Sean Cardinal O’Malley, OFM Cap., Archbishop Emeritus of Boston, on Saturday, March 14, at 4:30 p.m.*

After the Opening Mass, Adoration will take place continuously, to include overnight hours, through the Closing Mass on Saturday, March 14, at 4:30 p.m. The Closing Mass will conclude with a Eucharistic Procession through the Great Upper Church, followed by Solemn Benediction.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available during the Basilica’s regularly scheduled hours (9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.; 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.) in the Chapel of Our Lady of Hostýn, the Confessional Chapel.

At this mid-point of Lent, the faithful are invited to take part in this special devotion to draw close to the Lord in adoration, honoring the Lamb who takes away the sins of the world.