The Shrine of the Holy Innocents concept began in 2009, the year after one of our board members suffered through the loss of a pregnancy. That board member approached Redemptorist priest Fr. Tom Travers and asked him if it would be possible to plant a tree on the grounds of Mount St. Alphonsus, in Esopus, NY.
Fr. Tom liked the idea, but suggested that everyone think bigger. So the idea of a Shrine was born. Over the next year, a Board of Directors was formed, with Board members including a Roman Catholic Bishop, community leaders, pro-life advocates, Knights of Columbus, and men and women that have suffered pregnancy loss.
In January 2011, it was learned that Mount St. Alphonsus would close late in 2011, so the plans had to be redeveloped and a new location was sought. A non-profit trust was formed in New York State, allowing the Shrine to continue at another location. A specific location in Kingston, NY has been pursued by members of the Board in recent months. We expect details to be finalized at this location so that the project can break ground later this year. Our Shrine is starting to take off.
In 2018, we announced that The Shrine of the Holy Innocents Chapel was added on the property of St. Mary of the Snow in Saugerties, NY. The chapel is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Mass is said there on most Monday and Wednesday mornings at 8am. Visitors are welcome at any time. You are invited to come pray for our babies unborn, our babies born too soon, and our infants, toddlers and children who have gone home to God.
There’s another important mission that the Shrine will be working on. By working with hospitals and funeral directors, we’re going to teach those same institutions and the public that babies unborn and babies born too soon can still be buried and remembered with dignity.
The Shrine is 100% volunteer, so by joining us with your plaque purchase, you are helping us spread the word about the Shrine. More and more moms and dads will learn about us and come begin the healing process!