The Shrine of Bishop Baraga, the first Bishop of the Upper Peninsula, was constructed in the 1960’s, to honor one of the earliest pioneers of the Keweenaw. He spent much of his ministry traveling around the Upper Peninsula by snowshoes during the winter. The Shrine stands six stories above the Red Rocks Bluff between L’Anse and Baraga, where it can be seen towering above the trees, from the distance. The actual statue stands 35 feet tall and weighs four tons. The cross he is holding is 7 feet high, along with the snowshoes, which are 26 feet long. The Bishop stands on a cloud with five beams stretching out, reaching to the ground, which represent the five missions Bishop Baraga founded along the south shore of Lake Superior.

Our first photo of the Shrine at dusk, comes to us from Diane Richard, a new Pasty Camist, who took this beautiful shot recently while visiting the site. The next two photos were snapped by Nancy Haun, who I’m not sure what her official title is, but she is the lady behind the Shrine, who keeps it going and maintains the grounds. The Bishop Baraga Foundation is always looking for donations to help with the upkeep of the site. If you’re interested in helping out, the address is Box 665, Baraga, MI 49908. The Facebook page for the Shrine can be viewed by clicking here: Bishop Baraga Shrine.

Nancy made a video in the early morning quiet at the Shrine. She said the gentle breeze started moving the chimes and the beautiful sound resonated, surrounding her with peace and promise of a wonderful day. Make sure you turn your speakers up, so you can hear those chimes and enjoy the peace of the moment, too.

All the pictures are very nice and soothing but I love that first one.

I almost always learn something new AND exciting or interesting here, either directly or because it piques something to motivate me to research elsewhere.

Today I learned that in 1837 Father Baraga lived for while at a mission in Grand Rapids my birthplace and 1st hometown. This, before he founded the missionary in Baraga. I wonder if he met my Irish Ancestors that settled in Grand Rapids in 1933 and 1935. Somewhere I have a wall plaque certifying my ancestors lived here before statehood.

Off topic, Nancy's "Minute of Peace" video is only 45 seconds. I think maybe she left room for the networks to add commercials when it gets picked up by them.

I apologize Nancy, but I couldn't resist.

Welcome. I hope you stick around, but you might need to worry because MY sense of humor is FAR more sensible than that of Alex.

D.A. Can't agree on the dates, but totally agree on your "sense of humor" statement.

Baraga was always my hub when I took Wing UP there. I would always stay at the Baraga Lakeside Inn located on the shore of Keweenaw Bay.
And as far as "sense of Hummer" goes; "Can't we just all get a bong?"

LOL..... I'm in!

Nice Pic's and video as always ladies!!

FJL,

OOPS! 1833 and 1835 of course. Thank you.

Alex,
Given the Covid warnings about lung susceptibilities, it may be better stick with the edibles. “Gimme a break” huh?

I tried those, D.A., but they're to hard to light.

Alex,

You are not alone, but here's some help...

Smoking a Kit Kat Bar

Absolutely stunning!