Mary, Queen of the Universe

Spiritual renewal is something you can't buy at Orlando's Premium Outlet Stores. However, if you travel just west of Armani, you will find Mary, Queen of the Universe Shrine. There, surrounded by large pools, spouting water, palm trees and hibiscus you might just remember the proper order of the world and your place in it.

For me, one of the most sobering moments is visiting the Mother and Child's Chapel. This open-air structure is embedded with the memory tiles of countless children who lost their lives, yet cannot be forgotten. Candles burn at the altar under an intricate artwork depicting a mother's love. Standing there, you feel both the grief that was and the hope that remains.

Moving across the courtyard, you could visit the large church. Obviously a lot of devotion went into making the edifice honoring Jesus' mother. It isn't a tourist sight. It is a break in the materialism and the world of fantasy.

What I enjoyed the most was walking through the serene setting of the rosary garden. The many benches and tables make me this this would be a beautiful spot for a snack. The hide-away is shaded and quiet, littered only with pine cones and fallen blossoms, after a windy night. The I-4 races on nearby, but there is no rush in this little spot of earthly paradise.

A gift shop is available, though I didn't check it out. Really, after finding again some peace, I had all I needed.

Mary, Queen of the Universe Shrine Map