By Fr. William Kaliyadan, M.S.
The story of La Salette in Enfield started in the mid-20th century when the Missionaries of Our Lady of La Salette bought land that once belonged to the Shakers. In 1927, they founded a seminary and later turned the grounds into a shrine dedicated to Our Lady’s message of reconciliation. For many years, the Enfield Shrine has been a spiritual place for thousands of pilgrims who seek healing, peace, and renewal through the sacraments, retreats, and the simple act of quiet prayer in nature.
As time went on and the number of Missionaries in the area decreased, a difficult decision was made to close the shrine. In September 2023, the property was sold to the Enfield Shaker Museum, restoring the land to its Shaker heritage. The La Salette Missionaries decided to devote more resources to their National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette in Attleboro, Massachusetts. Although ownership has changed, the sacred memory of La Salette remains honored through cooperation between the Museum and the La Salette Associates. This transition has ensured that the La Salette story is preserved and continues in a new way, woven into the land’s history.
Even though the Missionaries no longer staff the shrine, the La Salette spirit and story continue to live on thanks to the dedication of the La Salette Associates, laity, and friends of the Shrine. Their commitment demonstrates that the charism of reconciliation is not limited to priests and religious but is a shared mission of the whole People of God.
Recently, a new informational sign was placed at the base of the former shrine hillside to welcome visitors, helping them reflect on the sacred history of this place in a quiet and peaceful way. Created in collaboration with the local museum, the sign beautifully represents La Salette’s lasting presence on the land.
In addition, several volunteer work days have been organized to care for the grounds and ensure safety, including the removal of dying ash trees. These gatherings not only preserve the property but also serve as moments of reunion for long-time La Salette friends, strengthening the bonds of community and faith.
In this way, the laity have become true guardians of the La Salette spirit in Enfield. Their prayer, service, and hospitality ensure that visitors still encounter this holy place as a space of welcome, reflection, and peace. The message of Our Lady of La Salette—“Make this known to all my people”—continues to echo through their faithfulness.
We are deeply grateful to Sharon and John Markowitz and the La Salette Associates for their leadership and generosity in keeping alive the memory, mission, and charism of Our Lady of La Salette in Enfield. Their commitment ensures that the La Salette story, though carried in new ways, remains a living witness of reconciliation for today.
