Shrine of St. Therese In Juneau Alaska Is So Little-Known, You Just Might Have It All To Yourself
By Megan McDonald|Published June 07, 2023
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Megan McDonald
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Megan McDonald is a writer, photographer, and owner of humu media, an Alaska-based digital media agency. She spends her free time traveling with her husband and daughter around the US and the world.
Where mountains meet the sea lies the Shrine of St. Therese in Alaska — a place of profound serenity and spiritual significance. With a rich history and a breathtaking natural setting, this sacred sanctuary invites visitors to seek solace. From the moment you arrive, a sense of tranquility and reverence envelops you, as if the echoes of prayers and contemplation resonate throughout the grounds. Step into the embrace of the Shrine of St. Therese and embark on a journey of introspection, faith, and profound beauty.
Overlooking the Lynn Canal in Juneau, the Shrine of St. Therese in Alaska is a timeless testament to faith, tranquility, and natural beauty.
Volunteers collected tens of thousands of stones to build the structure in honor of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, the Patron Saint of Alaska. She wrote in her autobiography, The Story of a Soul, “What really mattered in life was not our great deeds, but our great love."
The Shrine of St. Therese was founded in 1935 by Bishop Joseph Crimont, a missionary bishop of Alaska, who envisioned a place of retreat and spiritual renewal amidst the splendor of nature.
Inspired by the spirituality of St. Therese of Lisieux, the "Little Flower," Bishop Crimont sought to create a haven where individuals could seek solace, deepen their faith, and find inspiration in the natural wonders of Alaska. His vision culminated in establishing the Shrine, a place where the divine and the beauty of creation harmoniously intertwine.
Situated on 46 acres of lush forest and coastline, the Shrine of St. Therese boasts a setting of unparalleled serenity.
The tranquil grounds, adorned with vibrant flowers, towering trees, and winding paths, invite visitors to meditate. As you wander through the manicured gardens, experience the sea breezes, and listen to the soothing sounds of nature, a profound sense of peace and spiritual awakening envelops you.
The Shrine's architectural wonders further enhance its allure.
The site's centerpiece is the stunning Chapel of the Shrine, a masterpiece of log construction designed by renowned architect Brother Paul Goettler. Crafted with hand-hewn logs and adorned with intricate woodwork, stained glass, and sacred artwork, the chapel exudes a sense of reverence and beauty.
The Shrine of St. Therese has long been a destination for pilgrims seeking spiritual enlightenment. It also offers lodging in small cabins on the island.
Its serene ambiance and the opportunity for introspection and prayer attract individuals of various faiths and backgrounds. Whether you are searching for inner peace, guidance, or simply a moment of respite from the demands of everyday life, the Shrine welcomes all who seek solace and connection.
The Shrine of St. Therese in Juneau, Alaska, is more than just a physical place of worship; it is a sanctuary where history, spirituality, and natural beauty converge.
With its origins rooted in faith, the Shrine offers visitors an experience of peace, reflection, and renewal. This beautiful architectural and spiritual spot is a wonderful place to visit. Be sure to call ahead and reserve your visit’s transportation ahead of time, as during the summer, taxis and car rentals book up quickly.
Have you ever visited the Shrine of St. Therese In Alaska? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below!
Looking for more great places to visit in Juneau? Make sure to check out this old-growth forest trail.
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