If you are seeking serenity or are in search of an interdenominational place of worship or reflection, the Cathedral of the Pines is an outdoor venue for peace and soul-searching. Nestled on a secluded hilltop in Rindge, New Hampshire, amidst spindly, fragrant pines, it boasts the glorious Grand Monadnock Mountain as its backdrop.

This open-air chapel, established to honor the life of World War II pilot Sandy Sloane, is free to the public daily from May through October. Today, the Cathedral of the Pines serves all visitors, welcoming individuals of various faiths and beliefs. Furthermore, it stands as a national memorial to patriotic service, particularly honoring women’s wartime sacrifices.

1. A Chapel in the Woods

This ecumenical sanctuary provides an opportunity for reflection and gratitude for nature’s beauty, honoring those who have served America and facilitating worship in a manner that resonates with each visitor. Notable worship areas include the outdoor Cathedral, the Mother’s Chapel, the St. Francis Chapel, and the Hilltop House.

A visit to this open-air spiritual retreat can invigorate your senses and enhance your connection with nature. Whether you attend a service or simply stroll the grounds, you can depart with a renewed sense of appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.

2. Altar of the Nation

The outdoor Cathedral features essential elements, including the altar, pulpit, lectern, and baptismal font, which hold great significance. The Altar of the Nation, located at the front of the outdoor cathedral, was dedicated in 1946 as a memorial to New Hampshire’s World War II dead and later rededicated in 1947 to honor all war casualties. This altar was crafted from stones contributed by the Sons of the American Revolution from each U.S. state.

3. Women’s Memorial Bell Tower

The Women’s Memorial Bell Tower is a 55-foot stone shrine dedicated to American women, both civilian and military. This monument, inaugurated in 1966, was the first memorial to distinctly recognize the contributions of women in service to the nation. The plaques, designed by Norman Rockwell and his son Peter, commemorate the vital roles undertaken by women during wartime.

4. Bell Tower Bronze Plaques

Four bronze plaques located on the Women’s Memorial Bell Tower represent different contributions American women have made to the nation. Among these, one plaque honors the “Women of the Combat Forces,” while another highlights the specific roles women assumed during wartime, such as nurses, canteen workers, and factory employees who supported troops on the front lines.

5. Mother’s Chapel

Constructed in 1961, the Mother’s Chapel and its accompanying Garden of Remembrance serve as a tribute to all mothers. Dedicated to Peg Brummer, sister of Sandy Sloane, this chapel offers a tranquil space for reflection. It accommodates small groups for services and private meditation, enhancing its role as a peaceful retreat.

6. Cathedral House

The Cathedral House, acquired by Sandy Sloane’s parents in 1937 as their summer vacation home, was transformed into a memorial in 1945. The Sloanes envisioned an inclusive space that would embrace individuals of diverse faiths, fostering interfaith understanding as a pathway toward world peace. Consequently, the Cathedral of the Pines continues to be a sanctuary for celebration and remembrance, inviting all to share in its beauty and solace.