Earlier this summer, St. Nektarios Greek Orthodox Church in Charlotte, NC, introduced a beautiful new addition to their parish grounds—a small shrine dedicated to St. John the Baptist. This lovingly crafted shrine was placed in the parish courtyard, positioned to be particularly accessible to the children who frequently play and explore there on Sundays after Divine Liturgy.
The shrine has quickly become a cherished spot for the young members of the parish, who are naturally drawn to it. With a sense of reverence from their innocent faith, the children have begun venerating the icon of St. John the Baptist, offering prayers and leaving small tokens of devotion at the shrine. Spontaneous and heartfelt faith gestures have become a regular part of the children’s time at church.
What makes this shrine even more special is the way it has also captured the attention of the local wildlife. A young adult member of the parish noticed that the area around the shrine is frequently visited by animals. Deer, raccoons, and possums have all left their prints in the soft ground in front of the icon, their tracks mingling with the small footprints of the children. The sight of these animal tracks alongside the children’s has been a poignant reminder of the words of the psalms: “Every breath and all creation glorifies you, O Lord!”
The shrine to St. John the Baptist at St. Nektarios Church is more than just a physical structure; it is a living, breathing space where the faith of the young and the beauty of God’s creation come together in harmony.
Photo: St. Nektarios Greek Orthodox Church
