The Chapel of the Sisters of Loretto (USA)

	The Chapel of the Sisters of Loretto (USA) In the city of Santa Fe, New Mexico, a mystery has lasted for more than 130 years and still attracts more than 250,000 visitors each year—the Miraculous Staircase of Loretto Chapel. This chapel was completed in 1878 and only then did the Sisters realize that they had forgotten to have a staircase built to reach the choir loft. Unperturbed, they made a novena to Saint Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters. On the ninth and final day of their novena, a man came knocking at the chapel door looking for work. The carpenter built the staircase all by himself, which is already a major feat. He worked without using any nails or glue—only wooden pegs—and he disappeared when his elegant spiral staircase was completed, without thanks or pay. Two questions still perplex experts today: How can this staircase remain standing all these years without any means of support? Where did the wood come from since the type of wood used for the staircase does not exist in New Mexico? We will probably never know the answers to these questions. Some people are inclined to believe that the mysterious carpenter was actually St Joseph sent by Jesus in answer to the Sisters' prayers. Over the years many pilgrims and tourists have flocked to see the Miraculous Staircase and Loretto Chapel is now a famous Christian pilgrimage site. MDN Team Adapted from www.lorettochapel.com/staircase.html