The Schweitzer Chapel provides a place of worship for the people of Schweitzer Mountain, a retreat facility with a historical tradition of serving Christian youth groups on weekends and Holidays of the ski season and a meeting place for Christian organizations throughout the year. Both a Catholic Mass and a non-denominational Christian service are available during the ski season. Schweitzer Chapel is a non-profit Christian organization, administered in public trust by a volunteer board of directors.
There are several unique qualities of the Chapel that make it attractive to the many youth and church groups that use it continuously in the winter season. In addition to having a separate, intimate sanctuary for worship, this ski-in/ski-out Chapel provides a kitchen facility, dining area, recreational area and a two-story dormitory that sleeps 48 people. The dormitory has separate men’s and women’s floors and full bathrooms and shower facilities for each.
These are best expressed with a prayer which was given many years ago and is included in the original by-laws.
Our Father, we thank You for Your many blessings upon our endeavor to build this beautiful chapel. May we always remember that the beauty of this mountain which has given us so much pleasure, and which we love so dearly, was created by YOU. Guide us in our decisions, and show us the way so all may know this was done for YOUR sake and in YOUR name. AMEN
Brad & Janice Baldwin
Bob & Susan Stiger
Scott & Michele Magnuson
Lori Frank Joy
Erik & Krista Gilbert
Mary & Mark Brinkman
The main sanctuary was built with volunteer effort and donated materials. It was completed and dedicated in 1978 and has been home to Catholic and non-denominational Protestant services ever since. In 1982 a youth center was completed on the lower level through the generosity of the Metcalf family, and dedicated to their son Rick, a cross country skier caught in an avalanche the year before.
The final addition, a 48 bed dormitory attached to the original sanctuary building, was completed in 1999 and together this complex provides a full-service retreat facility for church youth and adult groups throughout the year. The dreams and dedicated support of many people throughout Schweitzer’s existence have come to fruition in this wonderful facility.