ave maria oratory

We had heard of the Ave Maria Oratory for the past few years during our annual vacation in Florida. This year we decided to see what it was all about. The Catholic Church is the center of the town. The building is a site to see. I would not describe it as beautiful, however, it is a spectacular structure. The town center surrounding the church was very quiet, not much activity. Outside of the town center, there were many new housing developments in various phases of construction. We will probably visit in 4 or 5 years to see how, or if, the community has grown.

This church is well worth the trip, well off the beaten track. It's design is so very different from anything I've ever seen. So many contemporary churches seem so similar; this one is so very different. If you enjoy architecture, this is a stop for you.

Went to visit Ave Maria primarily to see the Ave Maria Oratory. The Church was a modern design, which if you like modern designs than you would really think it is splendid. It is quite striking! There are several small shops and eaterys in the village section. However, most of the emphasis on the trolly ride was the housing developments taking place. The development of a private, Catholic univerisity was more interesting, along with a private Catholic school grades 1-12 in this age of fewer and fewer people attending church or sending their children to Catholic schools. I hope this is a positive sign for our younger generation. The best shop was "By Way of the Family" a religious gift and book store with some beautiful items. The Secret Ingredient (a women's shop) had expensive clothes for the younger generation (30's and 40's). It is interesting to visit if you just want to spend the day out and I do mean out because it is far out in the country in the middle of farmland. Personally, I hate to see more development in the country but the billionaires who are developing this area are definitely NOT interested in preserving nature, wildlife--only money!

Beautiful church almost in the middle of no where.. It is located on a very small and new town "Ave Maria" had the chance to visit the church and attend a mass, it was nice to see so much people full of faith! I was staying in Naples and I returned the next day for another visit! Fantastic place!

This is a beautiful church, quite unexpected to come across this in the middle of town. The inside is very modern and reflects the outside view. It is a little touristy with people taking pictures inside and out. Definitely worth a look.

What a beautiful Church! Had the opportunity to attend Mass and was very impressed. Some of the old time type Catholic Church's with the choir/organ loft. The entire Ave Maria community is very interesting. If you have the opportunity take a few hours and explore.

Not to put too fine a point on it, from the outside this building looks like an over-size Bishop's Mitre. It appears top-heavy and ill-proportioned. The steel roof gives the impression of a sports arena rather than a sacred space. And inside, the huge space is sparsely appointed. There's a beautiful relief carving outside above the doors and the Stations of the Cross (purchased from Europe?) are lovely, but the steel I-beams give an industrial feel. Even though the building received a design award from the steel industry, it lacks both warmth and beauty. Since it was designed and funded by a single individual, it seems more like a monument to his egotism than a work of art. The surrounding community, which includes a conservative Catholic university, feels like Stepford. And be warned that you'll get a sales pitch--they want to sell homes here.

Both Oratory and town are a nice break from the typical Florida attractions and strip malls. The oratory is a stunning piece of modern architecture with its steel arches and support beams. I found it quite inspiring, particularly as you can see the magnificent steeple for miles around. Similar to many Mediterranean towns, the oratory sits in the middle of a town square surrounded by shops and above store condos. It was a refreshing change from the gated communities and shopping centres that permeate south Florida. The major drawback is the vacancies of both stores and condos, which makes Ave Maria feel deserted.

We attended the Baccalaureate Mass, with the Chamber Choir providing music. It was lovely. The church is large and spacious. The Oratory is the center of the town and there are many small shops and restaurants in the piazza surrounding it.The Oratory is located across the street from Ave Maria University.

We were visiting Naples from Michigan, and thought we would make the drive out to Ave Maria on Sunday to hear mass. Everything about the university is stunningly beautiful. They should be very proud of what they have.

First time visiting this church. Very modern architecture with Frank Lloyd Wright touches. We attended Latin High Mass. It brought back many memories of my childhood but now I am even more thankful of the changes to make the Mass more meaningful. Did not like it that they do not give communion in the hand but rather on the tongue. Ladies, bring your mantilla - you will feel right at home!

What a beautiful Church. You have to hear the Ave Maria Chamber Choir perform. They are excellent. We heard them at Christmas time.

#1 it is a beautiful church. #2 the design is completely unique. So surprising that steel beaming could be so beautiful and graceful. We have never seen anything like it. This church will have a timeless modern look 100 years from now.

Is it just me, or does the facade of this super modern Roman Catholic Church look strikingly similar to the logo emblem of Star Trek? Hmmm... ? Maybe. In any case, its a beautiful church. The design is so modern and unique. The steel beams rise and open above the main sanctuary in cross patterns that allow the most beautiful displays of light and shadows to come in. It very peaceful albeit futuristic inside. I've detoured off Alligator Alley twice now just to drive through Ave Maria town and check out this church. Kudos to the designers. Very nice.