Shrine of St. Therese, Juneau, Catholic shrine on Lynn Canal, Juneau, United States
The Shrine of St. Therese is a stone chapel on a small island connected by causeway, surrounded by Lynn Canal waters with Chilkat Mountains behind it. The complex includes six buildings with lodging, dining facilities, and meeting spaces designed for retreats and gatherings.
The shrine began in the 1930s when Father William LeVasseur obtained federal land to establish a retreat center for spiritual reflection. It was dedicated to St. Therese of Lisieux, known for her message of divine mercy and trust in God's love.
The chapel holds stones gathered by community volunteers, showing how local people joined together to build this place of faith. These materials represent the connection between residents and their spiritual landmark.
The shrine is accessible from the mainland via the causeway connection, and paths and spaces are clearly marked for orientation. Visitors should plan ahead since the island location means travel arrangements matter, and conditions change with seasons and weather.
The Merciful Love Labyrinth path uses stones from the surrounding island beaches to create a space for personal reflection and meditation. This meditative walk joins the natural coastal landscape with spiritual purpose in an unusual way.
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