About National Shrine of Saint Thérèse · Juneau, Alaska
The National Shrine of Saint Thérèse is a sacred 46-acre retreat and pilgrimage site on an island overlooking the Lynn Canal near Juneau, Alaska. Built around a stone chapel constructed from beach stones gathered by local volunteers, it invites all souls to experience God’s boundless mercy amid the beauty of creation. The Shrine fosters spiritual renewal through prayer, reflection, connection with nature, and devotion to St. Thérèse of Lisieux, the “Little Flower.” It is open to people of all faiths for worship, retreats, weddings, funerals, and quiet contemplation.
- Established
- 1932
- Patron
- Saint Thérèse of Lisieux
- Diocese
- Archdiocese of Anchorage-Juneau
Why belong here
It is a place of welcome and mercy where visitors can deepen their faith, walk the Merciful Love Labyrinth, pray the outdoor Stations of the Cross, and volunteer in the gardens—all surrounded by the stunning Alaskan coastline and mountains.
Mass times at National Shrine of Saint Thérèse
Weekly Mass schedule
History of the Shrine
From a 1932 land grant to a 2016 National Shrine designation, the site reflects decades of vision, volunteer labor, and restoration.
- 1932 — Five acres of forest reserve land secured
- 1938 — Chapel cornerstone laid by Bishop Crimont
- 1941 — First Mass celebrated
- 1945 — Bishop Crimont buried in chapel crypt
- 2016 — Named a National Shrine by the USCCB
- 2022 — Shrine support facility completed and blessed by Archbishop Bellisario
Visit the Shrine
Located about 22 miles north of Juneau, the Shrine is open year-round with seasonal hours.
- May–September: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
- October–April: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
- No shuttle; taxi and tour companies serve the site
- 46 acres of chapel, gardens, labyrinth, and shoreline trails
Ministries and Volunteering
Volunteers are the backbone of the Shrine, from the stones in the chapel walls to the plants in the gardens.
- Thursdays with Therese gardening volunteers
- Garden adoption program
- Board and hospitality service
- Retreat and event support
Plan an Event
The Shrine welcomes gatherings for life’s sacred moments and spiritual renewal.
- Weddings
- Funerals
- Retreats and group meetings
- Overnight lodging in cabins and lodge