Patron Saint's Day at the Maria zu den Ketten Pilgrimage Church

Popular Pilgrimage Destination Maria zu den Ketten Pilgrimage Church As a Marian church, Maria zu den Ketten in Zell am Harmersbach is both a pilgrimage destination and a stop for hikers traveling along the Kinzigtal St. James’ Way from Loßburg to Schutterwald. On the Feast of the Assumption alone, on August 15, more than 3,500 people make the pilgrimage to Zell. The object of veneration is the miraculous image of Mary with the Infant Jesus. The carving, an early Gothic masterpiece from the 14th century, is considered particularly graceful. Largest Pilgrimage Church in the Black Forest Of the more than 20 pilgrimage churches in the Black Forest vacation region, Maria zu den Ketten is considered the largest: the nave can accommodate 600 people, with room for another 200 on the organ loft. Over the course of 1,000 years, a small wooden church from the 9th century has become one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the region. Rescue from Captivity: The Legend The seemingly strange name “Maria zu den Ketten” is based on the following legend: A blacksmith’s apprentice from the region was taken captive by the Turks during the Crusades. As a devotee of Our Lady of Zell, he implored the saint for deliverance. The chains fell from him, and a horse brought him back to his home village. As promised, he hung his chains next to the miraculous image. Today, two angels on the right and left of the altar hold chains in their hands; the historic iron chains hang from the choir arch; and a ceiling fresco illustrates the legend. Our tip: In the Candle Chapel, you can light a small candle and leave a prayer request on a slip of paper. It will be read aloud during the next Mass. Pilgrimage Days February 2: Presentation of the Lord March 19: St. Joseph’s Day March 25: Annunciation of the Lord July 2: Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary August 15: Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary September 8: Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary December 8: Immaculate Conception Mass Times Saturdays 9:00 a.m. Eucharistic Celebration for pilgrims with a homily and Eucharistic blessing Sundays 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Eucharistic Celebration On pilgrimage days 7:30 a.m. Eucharistic Celebration 9:30 a.m. Solemn High Mass 11:00 a.m. Mass (March 19 and August 15) 3:00 p.m. Devotions 7:00 p.m. Mass