Jesus the Saviour and Mother Mary

Jesus the Saviour and Mother Mary is the dual dedication of the International Sanctuary at Elele, Nigeria—Africa's first and only International Shrine. The dedication reflects the twofold focus of the pilgrimage centre founded by Father Emmanuel Edeh, CSSp, in 1985: Eucharistic Adoration centered on Jesus as Saviour, and Special Marian Devotion honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary. The name "Jesus the Saviour" also serves as the unifying title for the four religious congregations founded by Father Edeh to serve the sanctuary and its associated charitable works: the Sisters of Jesus the Saviour (1985), the Fathers of Jesus the Saviour (1991), the Contemplatives of Jesus the Saviour for men (1991), and the Contemplatives of Jesus the Saviour for women (2008). Together these communities are known as the "Saviourite" family. The dedication emphasizes both Christ's saving work through the Eucharist and Mary's role as mother and intercessor. Thursday of each monthly Pilgrimage Week is dedicated entirely to Marian devotion, culminating in processions and midnight Mass at the Marian Shrine within the complex.