The Milk Grotto Church
One of the most popular shrines to the Virgin Mary
in the Holy Land

Before you stands the entrance to the Milk Grotto Church in Bethlehem, constructed by the Franciscans in 1872. The façade, embellished with a relief in 1935, stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of Bethlehem's stonemasons. To the left, a door leads to the monastery and the church shop, while on the right, an entrance opens to the modern Milk Grotto Church. Adjacent to this is the archaeological site of the 6th century, home to a preserved stone mosaic floor that bears witness to the rich history of this sacred place.

Upon approaching the entrance to the Milk Grotto, on your left, there is a door leading into a quaint church shop. This serene spot offers not just keepsakes; it houses the venerated Milk Grotto powder, sought by many for its associated blessings. Within the shop, there’s a touching archive of gratitude from numerous families whose dreams of parenthood have been fulfilled, overcoming health challenges and infertility. These narratives stand as beacons of hope, showcasing the profound impact of faith in their lives. Visitors are invited to browse and perhaps find a piece of this sacred story to take with them. For those unable to visit in person but wishing to acquire the Milk Grotto powder, we offer an online ordering service with delivery available to almost any country in the world.

The arch at the entrance to the Milk Grotto cave is indeed a work of art, handcrafted by the local architect Issa Hazbun between 1872 and 1934. Hazbun, having made a vow to the Virgin Mary, utilized his expertise in Bethlehem stone masonry to create a remarkable facade that has stood the test of time. On the left side of the arch, atop the column, you can discern a biblical scene inspired by Matthew 2:13-14. This passage recounts the divine message given to Joseph, urging him to take the infant Jesus and his mother, Mary, and flee to Egypt to escape King Herod's decree. This scene is a testament to the survival of art and faith through centuries.

Upon approaching the entrance of the Milk Grotto cave, visitors are greeted by a strikingly crafted arch, a testament to the artisanship between 1872 and 1934. The esteemed local architect Issa Hazbun, honoring a vow to the Virgin Mary, harnessed his Bethlehem stonecraft to produce this exceptional facade. To the right side of the arch, poised at the pinnacle of a column, there lies a depiction of the biblical narrative from Matthew 2:13-14. This poignant scene portrays the divine revelation to Joseph, urging him to safeguard the Infant Jesus and His mother by escaping to Egypt, thereby thwarting King Herod's perilous intentions. In obedience, Joseph arose, and under the cloak of night, he commenced the journey to Egypt with the Child and His Mother.

Flanking the entrance to the Milk Grotto cave, you are greeted by two venerable figures enshrined within the walls: to your right and left stand King David and Prophet Elijah, respectively. These two iconic Biblical characters, prominent in the Old Testament, are commemorated for their faith and leadership. King David, renowned as a warrior, poet, and the second king of Israel, is often depicted with a harp, symbolizing his attributed authorship of many Psalms. His reign brought prosperity and unity to Israel, and he is a key ancestor of Jesus Christ in Christian tradition. Prophet Elijah is remembered for his fiery zeal in defending the worship of the God of Israel and performing miracles. He is also celebrated for his dramatic ascent to heaven in a whirlwind, leaving behind a legacy of prophetic leadership. Their sculptures at the entrance serve as a spiritual gateway, inviting contemplation and reverence from those about to enter the sacred site. The figures of David and Elijah set a tone of solemnity and history, echoing the deep roots of faith that the Milk Grotto symbolizes. These depictions not only adorn the holy site but also connect visitors to the storied past of the Holy Land, where prophets walked, kings ruled, and the sacred stories of the Old Testament unfolded.

Flanking the entrance to the Milk Grotto cave, you are greeted by two venerable figures enshrined within the walls: to your right and left stand King David and Prophet Elijah, respectively. These two iconic Biblical characters, prominent in the Old Testament, are commemorated for their faith and leadership. King David, renowned as a warrior, poet, and the second king of Israel, is often depicted with a harp, symbolizing his attributed authorship of many Psalms. His reign brought prosperity and unity to Israel, and he is a key ancestor of Jesus Christ in Christian tradition. Prophet Elijah is remembered for his fiery zeal in defending the worship of the God of Israel and performing miracles. He is also celebrated for his dramatic ascent to heaven in a whirlwind, leaving behind a legacy of prophetic leadership. Their sculptures at the entrance serve as a spiritual gateway, inviting contemplation and reverence from those about to enter the sacred site. The figures of David and Elijah set a tone of solemnity and history, echoing the deep roots of faith that the Milk Grotto symbolizes. These depictions not only adorn the holy site but also connect visitors to the storied past of the Holy Land, where prophets walked, kings ruled, and the sacred stories of the Old Testament unfolded.

At the threshold of the Milk Grotto cave, a revered pilgrimage destination in the Holy Land, the inscription "Mother of God pray for us" welcomes the faithful. To the left, a cross with two hands beneath it is a potent Catholic emblem, often interpreted as dedication, prayer, and service to Christ. This symbol may signify the sacrifice and commitment to faith, echoing Christ's own sacrifice and His call for His followers to bear their cross. It also embodies the Franciscan ethos of mercy and aid to those in need. On the right side, the Jerusalem cross, also known as the Franciscan cross, is displayed. This cross is a significant symbol that represents Christ and the four Gospels, signifying the spread of the Christian faith to the four corners of the earth. The central cross stands for Christ, and the smaller crosses symbolize the four evangelists. This emblem of Jerusalem was widely adopted by the Crusaders and is emblematic of the Franciscan order's connection to the Holy Land.

The Milk Grotto in Bethlehem, dating back to 1872, is under the stewardship of the Franciscans and stands on the site where previous temples from the Byzantine and Crusader periods once existed. In 1934, local architect Issa Hazbun, having made a vow to the Virgin Mary, used his expert knowledge of Bethlehem stonecraft to create a splendid facade. The staircase, unique in Bethlehem and inlaid with mother-of-pearl, is another masterpiece from Hazbun’s hands. Descending these shimmering steps, one’s attention is drawn to the singular arch crafted from a rare variety of red-pink Jerusalem limestone. Designed to resemble a crown of thorns, a white dove is depicted at its center as a symbol of the Holy Spirit descending from heaven to earth, flanked by two angels kneeling in reverence carved into the stone on either side. Above the ceiling, there is a sculpture of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, with Saint Francis gazing towards Christ. Moreover, within the stone interior, visitors can admire an abundance of unique stone works, featuring stunning patterns, intricate friezes, and the well-executed symmetry of the seamlessly transitioning stone lines.

Upon entering the Milk Grotto cave, immediately past the arch resting on two columns, on the left side, you can behold a picturesque composition of the Holy Family. In this composition, the Virgin Mary with the infant Jesus seated on a donkey, are setting off to Egypt, fleeing from the wrath of King Herod and his desire to destroy the child. Beside them walks Joseph, holding the donkey by the bridle. The biblical passages that recount this event are found in the Gospel of Matthew: Matthew 2:13-14: "When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. 'Get up,' he said, 'take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.' So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt." This scripture directly relates to the image of the Virgin Mary and infant Jesus on the donkey, and Joseph leading them, as the Bible narrates, to Egypt after an angel appeared to them at night.

Descending the steps into the Milk Grotto, you are welcomed into an expansive cave steeped in devotion and wonder. According to tradition, it is here that the Virgin Mary is said to have nursed the infant Jesus, where a miracle occurred, turning the cave's stone floor white with the drops of her milk. This marvel has enshrined the grotto as a beacon of hope for Christian pilgrims and even Muslims. By the early fourth century, a church was erected to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ and the miraculous event associated with this sacred space. Couples grappling with infertility often journey here to seek the Virgin Mary's intercession for the blessing of a child. The famed Milk Grotto powder, which has been sourced from this holy site for centuries, is believed to carry the legacy of the miracles associated with the birth of children to countless faithful families, thus cementing its widespread renown. As you stand in this grotto, let the sense of history and holiness envelop you. Feel the presence of the countless who have come before, carrying their deepest longings and expressions of faith. This is a place not just of history but of living faith, where the stone itself seems to echo with the prayers of millennia. Here, amidst the quiet reverence, you may also encounter your own moment of peace, a personal connection to the divine, woven into the very fabric of this ancient sanctuary.

Descending the steps into the Milk Grotto, you are welcomed into an expansive cave steeped in devotion and wonder. According to tradition, it is here that the Virgin Mary is said to have nursed the infant Jesus, where a miracle occurred, turning the cave's stone floor white with the drops of her milk. This marvel has enshrined the grotto as a beacon of hope for Christian pilgrims and even Muslims. By the early fourth century, a church was erected to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ and the miraculous event associated with this sacred space. Couples grappling with infertility often journey here to seek the Virgin Mary's intercession for the blessing of a child. The famed Milk Grotto powder, which has been sourced from this holy site for centuries, is believed to carry the legacy of the miracles associated with the birth of children to countless faithful families, thus cementing its widespread renown. As you stand in this grotto, let the sense of history and holiness envelop you. Feel the presence of the countless who have come before, carrying their deepest longings and expressions of faith. This is a place not just of history but of living faith, where the stone itself seems to echo with the prayers of millennia. Here, amidst the quiet reverence, you may also encounter your own moment of peace, a personal connection to the divine, woven into the very fabric of this ancient sanctuary.

In the lowest part of the Milk Grotto cave's left side, the widely venerated icon of the Bethlehem Mother of God nursing the infant Jesus with milk can be found. Sunlight typically streams through ceiling openings, casting beautiful natural light within. Previously, this cave served as a cistern or well, accumulating rainwater during the winter rains. The cave's formation remains a mystery—it may be natural or could have been a quarry for stone extraction, as suggested by some sections of the cave near the ceiling, dating back to before the birth of Jesus Christ or between the first and third centuries AD. One thing is certain: every stone in this cave holds centuries of history and remembers each prayer spoken within these walls. The site began to gain its fame and popularity from the fourth century AD, after the construction of the first church on this spot, which, unfortunately, has not survived to the present day. Couples facing difficulties in conceiving children often come here seeking the Virgin Mary's prayerful aid, hoping for the miracle of childbirth. The renowned Milk Grotto powder, harvested directly from this holy cave for centuries, is regarded as a bearer of the legacy of miracles associated with the birth of children in numerous devout families, which has made this place widely known.

In the lowest part of the Milk Grotto cave's left side, the widely venerated icon of the Bethlehem Mother of God nursing the infant Jesus with milk can be found. Sunlight typically streams through ceiling openings, casting beautiful natural light within. Previously, this cave served as a cistern or well, accumulating rainwater during the winter rains. The cave's formation remains a mystery—it may be natural or could have been a quarry for stone extraction, as suggested by some sections of the cave near the ceiling, dating back to before the birth of Jesus Christ or between the first and third centuries AD. One thing is certain: every stone in this cave holds centuries of history and remembers each prayer spoken within these walls. The site began to gain its fame and popularity from the fourth century AD, after the construction of the first church on this spot, which, unfortunately, has not survived to the present day. Couples facing difficulties in conceiving children often come here seeking the Virgin Mary's prayerful aid, hoping for the miracle of childbirth. The renowned Milk Grotto powder, harvested directly from this holy cave for centuries, is regarded as a bearer of the legacy of miracles associated with the birth of children in numerous devout families, which has made this place widely known.

This is what a piece of rock from the Milk Grotto looks like, from which the Milk Grotto powder is made. It is a white limestone with a calcium content, and it is quite friable. Until the twentieth century, many pilgrims would themselves chip off pieces of these stones from the ceiling or walls of the Milk Grotto, and some would simply scrape a little powder with something hard and take away a part of the relic. In the last decade, the cave's ceiling was covered with a layer of cement and plaster to protect the sanctuary from such actions, but you can still purchase several packets of Milk Grotto powder with instructions for its use in the church shop. If you are unable to visit the Milk Grotto Church, you can order this powder online with delivery to almost any country. Purchasing a piece of the Milk Grotto rock is almost impossible due to the limited amount of these stones.

This is what the packaging of the Milk Grotto powder looks like. Inside the package, on the outer side, there is an insert with an image of a Catholic icon from around the 19th century. Unfortunately, the authorship of this work by an unknown Italian artist is not known. It depicts the Virgin Mary, nursing the infant Jesus. This icon was created in memory of the birth of the savior Jesus Christ to the world and the miracle of His immaculate conception and birth by the Virgin Mary in Bethlehem. As stated in the text in English 'The Virgin Mary in the Milk Grotto' and in Latin 'A MARIA VIRGO VENERATA IN CRYPTA LACTIS', this iconography is rich in Christian symbolism. It is associated with the history of the Milk Grotto in Bethlehem, according to beliefs that when the Virgin Mary breastfed the infant Jesus, drops of milk, falling on the stone floor of the cave, turned it white. This belief led to the construction of the first church of the Milk Grotto in the fourth century AD. The upper part of the package depicts the famous icon of the Mother of God, nursing the infant Jesus, which can also be seen in the church of the Milk Grotto in Bethlehem. Inside the package is a small packet of Milk Grotto powder. Instructions for use are usually included in English and other languages. It is important to mention that the Milk Grotto powder is not a medicinal product or a dietary supplement; it is a symbol of faith for families wishing to have a child. This powder can be purchased at the local church shop, located to the left of the entrance to the temple, or ordered from us online with delivery to almost all countries in the world. When ordered online, a holographic authenticity sticker will be affixed to the back of the package, confirming its originality.

If you have the opportunity to visit Bethlehem, make sure to explore one of the most significant and intriguing pilgrimage sites in the Holy Land. The Milk Grotto Church will leave you with unforgettable impressions and narrate the fascinating history of the local area about the miraculous birth of the infant Jesus and the wonders associated with the Milk Grotto. More than two thousand years of history await to envelop you. Typically, it's not overcrowded here, allowing for a moment of quiet, a chance to kneel in prayer, read the Gospel, or simply be alone with God. Make sure to look into every hidden nook of this place, paying attention to the small details and fragments of history.

In this photograph, you can see the interior of the Milk Grotto Church. During services, these seats are filled with parishioners, and they are also used by pilgrim groups when visiting the Milk Grotto. It is important to emphasize that this place is sacred to many Christian believers, and if you have the chance to visit, please do so with respect, maintaining silence and order not to disturb other believers engaged in prayer or reading the Word of God.

This photograph captures the serene interior of the Milk Grotto. The space is tranquil and contemplative, inviting visitors to pause and pray. Should you find yourself in Bethlehem, the Milk Grotto Church is a must-visit location for its peaceful atmosphere and spiritual significance.

In this photograph, you can see the interior of the Milk Grotto Church. During services, these seats are filled with parishioners, and they are also used by pilgrim groups when visiting the Milk Grotto. It is important to emphasize that this place is sacred to many Christian believers, and if you have the chance to visit, please do so with respect, maintaining silence and order not to disturb other believers engaged in prayer or reading the Word of God.

In this photograph, you can see the interior of the Milk Grotto Church. During services, these seats are filled with parishioners, and they are also used by pilgrim groups when visiting the Milk Grotto. It is important to emphasize that this place is sacred to many Christian believers, and if you have the chance to visit, please do so with respect, maintaining silence and order not to disturb other believers engaged in prayer or reading the Word of God.

This photograph allows for a closer look at each corner of the Milk Grotto, showcasing the entrance to an underground corridor that leads from the grotto cave to the more modern Franciscan church located on the upper tier.

This photograph allows for a closer look at each corner of the Milk Grotto, showcasing the entrance to an underground corridor that leads from the grotto cave to the more modern Franciscan church located on the upper tier.

The Sisters who serve at the Milk Grotto in Bethlehem are known as the Perpetual Adorers of the Blessed Sacrament. They belong to a contemplative order that was founded in 1807 in Italy by Blessed Mary Magdalene of the Incarnation. These sisters arrived in the Holy Land in 2007 and have since lived a life centered around perpetual Eucharistic adoration, prayer, and service. The order is dedicated to praying for others and practices perpetual adoration, living a contemplative life away from the outside world. The sisters take turns praying in front of the Blessed Sacrament every day and night. Their mission is to live the Eucharistic mystery and give testimony to Christ's real presence in the Eucharist. Their daily routine includes Lauds at 5:30 AM followed by the office of the readings, Mass, morning prayers, the rosary, and then breakfast. The nuns also engage in various works such as singing practice, housekeeping, embroidery, and sewing. In addition to their prayer life, the Perpetual Adorers have been praying uninterruptedly for peace since 2016 when a ‘Queen of Peace’ tabernacle, donated by the Polish community of the same name, was installed in their Chapel. The altar at the Milk Grotto was designed by Polish artist Mariusz Drapikowski, inspired by the Apocalypse of St John. The altar depicts earthly Jerusalem surrounded by the twelve apostles and the twelve tribes of Israel with Jesus at the center. When the altar is opened, it represents the heavenly Jerusalem shining brightly. The Perpetual Adorers live in a monastery adjacent to the Chapel of the Milk Grotto, connected to the church by a tunnel that leads to a further chapel in the basement where they practice their perpetual adoration.

The photograph depicts a nun during a moment of prayerful vigil. She is dressed in traditional monastic garb, reflecting a deep spiritual commitment and devotion to her faith. Nuns like her, living and serving in the monastery near the Church of the Milk Grotto in Bethlehem, are part of a Catholic religious community with a special focus on the perpetual adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. These women lead lives filled with prayer and service, participating in liturgical services, meditations, and other forms of worship. Beyond personal prayers and meditations, they also take an active role in welcoming and assisting pilgrims and visitors to this sacred place, which holds a special place in the hearts of believers due to its historical and biblical significance. The service of these sisters is a living reflection of their faith and their desire to provide spiritual support to all who come to the Church of the Milk Grotto, seeking solace, peace, or spiritual guidance.

Passing through the underground corridor from the Milk Grotto cave, you enter a modern church designed in a minimalist style. The church is characterized by its white, lofty walls adorned with small icons, wooden pews with high backs, and large, bright windows that fill the sanctuary with daylight.

Passing through the underground corridor from the Milk Grotto cave, you enter a modern church designed in a minimalist style. The church is characterized by its white, lofty walls adorned with small icons, wooden pews with high backs, and large, bright windows that fill the sanctuary with daylight.

The monastery located on the territory of the Milk Grotto in Bethlehem is the Monastery of the Sisters of Perpetual Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. This monastery belongs to the Catholic Church tradition and is managed by the Franciscan Order. Key aspects of the monastery include: Eucharistic Adoration: The monastery is known for its continuous practice of Eucharistic adoration, which is a central element of the sisters' spiritual life. Prayer for Peace: Since 2016, the sisters of the monastery have been particularly devoted to praying for peace in the world, reflecting their deep spiritual concern and commitment to peacemaking. "Queen of Peace" Tabernacle: The monastery houses the "Queen of Peace" tabernacle, which plays a significant role in the Eucharistic adoration and spiritual life of the monastery. The monastery is also part of the broader religious and historical complex of the Milk Grotto Church, revered as the place where, according to Christian tradition, the Virgin Mary nursed the infant Jesus.

The monastery located on the territory of the Milk Grotto in Bethlehem is the Monastery of the Sisters of Perpetual Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. This monastery belongs to the Catholic Church tradition and is managed by the Franciscan Order. Key aspects of the monastery include: Eucharistic Adoration: The monastery is known for its continuous practice of Eucharistic adoration, which is a central element of the sisters' spiritual life. Prayer for Peace: Since 2016, the sisters of the monastery have been particularly devoted to praying for peace in the world, reflecting their deep spiritual concern and commitment to peacemaking. "Queen of Peace" Tabernacle: The monastery houses the "Queen of Peace" tabernacle, which plays a significant role in the Eucharistic adoration and spiritual life of the monastery. The monastery is also part of the broader religious and historical complex of the Milk Grotto Church, revered as the place where, according to Christian tradition, the Virgin Mary nursed the infant Jesus.

If you find yourself in Bethlehem, do not miss the opportunity to visit one of the key pilgrimage sites in the Holy Land — the Church of the Milk Grotto, located a stone's throw from the Church of the Nativity. Entrance to the Milk Grotto and the archaeological museum is completely free of charge, making this historical and spiritual experience accessible to all. The Milk Grotto is under the care of the Franciscans, and within its grounds is the functioning monastery of St. Catherine's Franciscan Monastery. Here, amidst ancient artifacts and the quietude of prayer, you can feel a connection to the centuries-old history of Christianity, walk on the land that holds traces of Christ’s presence, and touch the stones saturated with memories of the times of Biblical events and the birth of Christianity. Within the territory of the Milk Grotto is a small archaeological museum featuring a stone floor mosaic from the 6th century. This mosaic, having survived more than fourteen centuries, once adorned the floor of an ancient church that, unfortunately, was destroyed, but the surviving elements continue to narrate the story of past magnificence. Handcrafted from various types of stones, each element of the mosaic was meticulously processed, turning into a unique work of art that has reached our days. This place is revered not only by Christians but also by many Muslims, making it an important symbol of intercultural and interfaith respect and harmony.

This mosaic is located within the grounds of the modern complex of the Church of the Milk Grotto and the Franciscan Monastery of Saint Catherine. Among the numerous mosaic patterns of the sixth century, one can also discern a well-preserved Star of David, a symbol often used by early Christians and during Byzantine times. The New Testament of the Bible mentions that King David was originally from Bethlehem (Matthew 1:1 and Matthew 2:1), and it was to Bethlehem that Joseph and Mary, being of the line of David, came for the census before the birth of Jesus Christ (Luke 2:4-5). This historical event underscores the significance of Bethlehem as the place where Jesus was born and reflects the deep religious and cultural connections embedded in the foundation of the mosaic.

This photograph likely shows a 12th-century tomb that was discovered during the construction of the Milk Grotto Church in the 19th century. Such finds are not uncommon in regions with rich historical layers, where new construction often leads to the uncovering of artifacts and structures from previous eras. The presence of a tomb from the 12th century could provide valuable insights into the medieval period of the area, including burial practices, architectural styles, and the historical significance of the site during that time.

This photo captures a fragment of a 6th-century floor mosaic, a mysterious echo that has traveled through 14 centuries. Belonging to an earlier church that preceded the current Church of the Milk Grotto, this mosaic is a silent testament to the spiritual quests and historical journey of this sacred place. The original temple, built here in the 4th century AD, experienced rises and falls, was destroyed, but its foundations and decorative elements, like this mosaic, have been preserved to our time. Crafted exclusively from multicolored stones, each piece of the mosaic was meticulously selected and laid to create intricate patterns, demonstrating the craftsmanship and artistic taste of the time. Each of these stones, being part of a magnificent design, could tell its own story—about the hands that polished it, about the eyes that appreciated its place in the overall pattern, about the people who prayed while walking over this mosaic carpet. Modern archaeologists and historians treat these fragments of the past with respect, as each piece carries a key to understanding the cultural and spiritual heritage. Preserving these mosaics is not just an effort to protect ancient art but also an endeavor to maintain the continuity of times, allowing us to peek into the lives and beliefs of those who lived many centuries before us. The Milk Grotto mosaic is not just a decoration; it's a page from the book of history that continues to inspire to this day.

This photo depicts a family sharing their testimony of a miracle birth after many unsuccessful attempts. In their letter, they describe how the "rock powder" from the Milk Grotto in Israel and prayer helped them to conceive. They express profound gratitude to God and His mother Mary for this miracle. Families who have faced difficulties in conceiving often leave their letters and medical documents, substantiating their stories, in the church's archive. These live testimonies can inspire faith even in those who were previously doubtful. Visiting the archive and reading these letters can be a powerful experience for anyone in Bethlehem interested in the stories of the Milk Grotto.

This photo depicts a family sharing their testimony of a miracle birth after many unsuccessful attempts. In their letter, they describe how the "rock powder" from the Milk Grotto in Israel and prayer helped them to conceive. They express profound gratitude to God and His mother Mary for this miracle. Families who have faced difficulties in conceiving often leave their letters and medical documents, substantiating their stories, in the church's archive. These live testimonies can inspire faith even in those who were previously doubtful. Visiting the archive and reading these letters can be a powerful experience for anyone in Bethlehem interested in the stories of the Milk Grotto.

This photo depicts a family sharing their testimony of a miracle birth after many unsuccessful attempts. In their letter, they describe how the "rock powder" from the Milk Grotto in Israel and prayer helped them to conceive. They express profound gratitude to God and His mother Mary for this miracle. Families who have faced difficulties in conceiving often leave their letters and medical documents, substantiating their stories, in the church's archive. These live testimonies can inspire faith even in those who were previously doubtful. Visiting the archive and reading these letters can be a powerful experience for anyone in Bethlehem interested in the stories of the Milk Grotto.

In Bethlehem's Milk Grotto, set into the wall behind the altar, lies a revered depiction of the Virgin Mary nursing the infant Jesus. This venerated figure is nestled within a niche, which is intricately adorned with hand-crafted mother-of-pearl patterns and ornaments by Bethlehem's local craftsmen. In the 19th century, an Italian artist created an icon in remembrance of Bethlehem's holy sites, inspired by this image of the Virgin Mary. Early in the 20th century, an Italian printer began producing postcards with the same image, which later became the design for the packaging of the Milk Grotto powder. This powder, cherished for its connection to the Virgin Mary, can be purchased at the church shop near the entrance to the Milk Grotto or ordered online, a service that has only been made available in recent years. For Catholics who venerate the Virgin Mary, this icon is a poignant symbol of maternity and divine tenderness. The Milk Grotto is believed to be the site where the Virgin Mary nursed Jesus, with a drop of her milk said to have fallen and miraculously whitened the stones of the cave. This legend underscores the purity and nurturing nature of Mary, making both the site and the image powerful focal points for Marian devotion. The link between this icon and the Milk Grotto is deeply entrenched in the faith, with believers often seeking the Virgin Mary's intercession for fertility and motherhood. The nursing image of Mary resonates with their own desires for family and children, and the Milk Grotto powder has become a tangible manifestation of this bond, providing hope and spiritual solace to the faithful around the world.

This icon located in Bethlehem, in the Milk Grotto, is one of the venerated icons among Catholic and Orthodox Christians. Should you have the chance to visit the Milk Grotto, do touch this icon. Opposite the icon, there is a small stone bench around a column where you can sit down to pray or read the Gospel, remembering the events when the Savior Jesus Christ was born to the world. Just think that you are in the place where Christianity was born two thousand years ago and truly miraculous events took place. Icons of the Virgin Mary nursing the infant Jesus, known as "Maria Lactans," are an ancient tradition in Christian iconography and hold great significance in the Catholic faith. They emphasize the humanity of Christ and the maternal care of the Virgin Mary, reflecting the theological concept of Theotokos. These icons are often associated with themes of nourishment and intercession. According to tradition, the cave became white when a drop of Mary's milk fell to the ground as she was nursing Jesus. Thus, the icon is not just an image of maternal care but also a symbol of the miraculous past of the grotto and its place as a center of pilgrimage. For Catholics, this icon and the Milk Grotto are part of a living tradition of veneration and a reminder of the Incarnation when the divine entered human history. The icon serves as a focal point for prayer and contemplation, drawing believers into deeper relationships with the Holy Family and the mysteries of faith.

This is the street of the Milk Grotto on an early winter morning following a rainfall. Many residents are still at home, and the Milk Grotto Church is not yet open. The white gate on the right is the main entrance to the church compound.