• Friday-What'sUP July 27 - 07:06 pm

Attending a service in this hand-hewn log chapel, located in Copper Harbor, is truly a spiritual event. This little Finnish log church, photographed by Christopher Cole, was built in 1952-1953, by Victor Oja, with a theme of "Beauty in Simplicity". He certainly captured that simple purpose, using logs from Mandan and rocks from around the area, then handcrafting the pews, holy water fonts and some of the sanctuary furniture. It truly is a work of art and a peaceful, blessed place to worship. Make sure your visit to the area includes a stop to this church of the Keweenaw Missions.

What a beautiful church! Puts the huge cathedrals to shame, in my humble opinion. Thanks for the pictures!!!
Best wishes,
Renee in AL

Great church! I love all churches!

Like the Copper Country version of that wooden church in Norway that is REALLY old, I can't remember the name of it.

Where is this church located? It certainly is beautiful!!
“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”
Leonardo da Vinci

What materials were used on the roof?

Isn't that "Our Lady of the Pines" church in Copper Harbor?

Looks like a metal roof.......

That is Our Lady of the Pines. It is located on the road to Lake Manganese, right behind The Pines resort. It is back in the trees a way, so if you aren't looking for it, you might miss it. Not being Catholic, I've only been in it for funerals, but for both of them, every seat was full and people were standing two and three deep around the walls, so it definitely does fill up. And the sense of community one gets when all those people are there is truly wonderful.

Brenda,

Sharon Smith is correct when she says you might pass it if you're not looking for it. I was looking for it, missed it, and ended up in the Estivant Pines.

Here's where the church actually is: (red dot)

Never knew this church was there in Copper Harbor. Hand-hewn logs and pews - wow. Does anyone know if this church is regularly served by a priest? Several Catholic churches in the area have closed in recent years - a shame.

According to http://www.dioceseofmarquette.org/parish.asp?parishID=132 the church is open during the summer months and is served by a priest.

I didn't think there were too many Catholic Finns out there--did Oja build this as a Catholic chapel originally?

And the sign in the middle pic says it is open all year.

omg i soooooooooooooooo was there about 7 years ago. i loved that place.