Lebanese sanctuary where Mary, Jesus rested is ‘very holy land’
A statue of Mary is seen outside the ancient grotto of Our Lady of Mantara in Maghdouché, Lebanon, April 30, 2021. It is the site where tradition says Mary waited for Jesus while he was preaching in Sidon and Tyre. (CNS photo/Doreen Abi Raad)
By Doreen Abi Raad
• Catholic News Service • Posted May 5, 2021
SIDON, Lebanon (CNS) — In the village of Maghdouché, overlooking the ancient Mediterranean coastal city of Sidon, a statue of the Blessed Mother holding the infant Jesus graces the hilltop.
It is also the site where holy tradition says Mary waited for her son Jesus while he was preaching in Sidon and Tyre, thus the name, “Our Lady of Mantara,” or “waiting.” After his preaching, Jesus would join his mother at the grotto.