ATLANTA--The Shrine of the Immaculate Conception has seen an average of 500 people a day visiting the church and taking advantage of tours and hospitality, according to Olympic outreach coordinator Pat Gardella.

The number of visitors fluctuates with events being held at nearby Olympic venues including the stadium and Georgia Dome. "We've noticed a really big influx about an hour or so before an event begins or right after a venue lets out," she said. "Some take the tour, others come in to pray." Including the people at Masses each day, attendance can hit 750.

Gardella and Shrine pastor Father John Adamski enthusiastically praised the volunteer help being given by parishioners from other archdiocesan parishes and youth ministries. "The thing that is noteworthy and wonderful for us is the people coming from other parishes. That is a wonderful display of Catholic community," Father Adamski said. "Some have made repeated trips down here on MARTA."

There is still a need for volunteers particularly during the 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. shift. Help will be needed during the Paralympics and for the rest of the summer, Gardella said.

Thirsty visitors are drinking about 400 gallons of water each day at hospitality stations at the front and side of the church.

For her, the "biggest treat and surprise is how many people have thanked us for handing out the water and giving out the history" of the church.