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National Shrine of the Apostle Paul. (CNS photo/Dave Hrbacek, Catholic Spirit)

If you’re looking to do some meaningful travel this summer, consider Minnesota.  Pope Benedict XVI and the U.S. Conference of Cathoilc Bishops just designated  the Cathedral of St. Paul in Minnesota as a shrine.

Now known as the National Shrine of the Apostle Paul, the title recognizes the cathedral’s national importance. The archdiocese’s mother church is now an official pilgrimage destination for groups from across the country.

That will be nothing different, according to Fr. Joseph Johnson, the cathedral’s rector. Groups already tour the cathedral as a pilgrim, a tourist and student. The cathedral is a civic monument because of its impressive architecture and history.

Read the full story which originally appeared in The Catholic Spirit.

To help close out the Pauline Year, the shrine is hosting the world premiere of “Paul of Tarsus: Apostle to the Gentiles” tonight and tomorrow. The one-man theatrical production challenges its audience to reflect on their role in disciipleship and mission of evangelization. Learn more about the drama.

For a local wrap-up of the Year of St. Paul, visit:

• Sacred Heart Parish June 28. Robert Maekawa will disccuss the spirituality of St. Paul at 3 p.m. Mass is at 5 p.m. followed by a potluck. There’s also a pilgrimage Mass June 29 at 5:30 p.m. followed by an ice cream social.
• St. Paul Parish all day June 29 for private prayer and a visit with an icon of St. Paul. Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted will offer Mass at 7 p.m.
• Ss. Simon and Jude Cathedral for daily Mass.