Shrine of Our Lady of Tears

Monument - Pointe-Noire

The shrine of Our Lady of Tears is located at the end of Departmental Highway D17, in the hamlet of Espérance, at the confluence of Petite Plaine River and Islet River. This Oratory is a place of pilgrimage dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The setting is exceptional, the shrine rising from a rocky platform into clear water in the midst of a tropical forest. It was in this peaceful place that the Virgin is said to have appeared twice in 1977, on May 9 and June 3. The stone Oratory bears an inscription:  "Here the Virgin Mary appeared. All who come here with great faith and trust, without curiosity, will receive graces and here there will be many miracles." The shrine has two niches, one containing a statue of the standing Virgin, hands joined, protected by glass; the other a statue in prayer. This site attracts many visitors, due to the beauty of the setting and the mystery surrounding it. It is also visited by many devout believers, who come here to pray, place candles, and make offerings.