Cross in the Woods, Peaceful and Sacred Space for All

We had heard about the Cross in the Woods in Indian River for years, maybe even a decade, but had never traveled to see it. It was on our list, and we were passing by on our way home from Mackinaw City, so we decided to stop. Wow! We were so glad that we stopped in for a visit. Peace fills this sacred space, and there really are no words to capture it.

It’s Just a Cross in the Woods

We have seen photos of Cross in the Woods and thought, yeah, it’s a cross in the woods. We have seen plenty of crosses and been to wilderness retreat centers. It just didn’t seem that special. I will post pictures here, and you may have the same reaction. It is NOT the same in person.

More than a Cross in the Woods

The winding path through pines and shrines feels full of the sacred. Peace so fills the atmosphere that it is nearly palpable. As you proceed down the path, you see glimpses of the Cross, closer and closer, and then there it is. You are face to face with a 55-foot cross, which takes your breath away.

Visiting in Winter

Maybe it was the time that we went. I have heard it is more crowded and filled with beautiful flowers in summer. Many people attend masses outside in the warmer months. We were there on Sunday, December 31st. The air was chilly, and light snow was falling. We arrived in the middle of mass, which was inside this time of year, so we waited until the parking lot was cleared. We had the whole outside to ourselves. It was still, quiet, peaceful, and stark. There were no flowers or people. No birds singing or sounds of vacationers in the area. Just the cold, wind, snow, and bleak colors of winter. It was sublime.

Varied Shrines

We took some time to pray at the particular shrines scattered throughout the grounds that were important to us. St. Kateri Tekakwitha, The Holy Family, and St. Peregrine were of particular interest to us, but there are many more. We also looked for Blessed Bishop Baraga, who worked tirelessly for and with the indigenous people of Michigan. He worked for their benefit to the point that he had to be protected from those trying to take land away from the indigenous people.

Bishop Baraga

It turns out that Bishop Baraga’s shrine is not outside, so we ventured inside to talk with an usher. He was unaware of such a shrine and had to ask a few more people. Finally, someone found the priest who knew precisely where to find it. Bishop Baraga’s shrine is inside in the old chapel called the Longhouse. The usher was kind enough to show us the way and, after a few words, left us alone in the chapel. Peace and quiet filled this unused space as it had while we were outside.

Hall of Saints

Outside, along the front of the building, is a row of icons hanging on the wall with electronic candles in front of them. We found a few more patron saints here and said a few more prayers. It was a perfect way to close out a year and pray for peace and joy for our family and friends in the coming New Year.

No matter your faith, we encourage you to visit the Cross in the Woods and experience the peace. Sit in the quiet and fill your soul with the sacredness found in this place. The photos poorly represent what you will actually find when you go. And if you enjoy the stark quietness of the winter, definitely visit during those cold months that keep many home and inside.

To plan your visit check the website for details.

If you are headed to Mackinaw City while you visit, check out the Dixie Saloon for a delicious meal.