The Grotto is one of the most sacred places on Notre Dame’s campus. At all times of the day and night, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and visitors make their way to the Grotto for quiet reflection and prayer. It’s a place where students mark their time by making first and last visits with their classes, where the Rosary is said daily, and where Mass is often celebrated by campus groups and classes during Reunion. It is holy ground dedicated to Mary, the Mother of our Lord.

For 33 years until her death in 1995, Clara Clements, a member of the South Bend and Notre Dame faith communities, dedicated her life to fulfilling prayer requests and lighting candles at the Grotto for people who were unable to do so in person. The Notre Dame Alumni Association’s prayer team continues this blessed ministry by following in Clara’s footsteps.  

We welcome you to submit your prayers for yourself and others. A volunteer will offer them on your behalf at the Grotto, where a candle representing all prayer requests remains perpetually lit.

Please submit your Grotto prayer requests below. If you are having problems submitting your requests, please send requests to [email protected].

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The University is closed for the Christmas holidays and will reopen on Thursday, January 2, 2025. Please know that we will be delayed in replying to your prayer request. May God bless you and your family during this holy time of year.