"Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where NATURE may heal and give strength to body and soul.Image removed by sender."
~ John Muir
For over a century, Little Harbor Chapel has offered Seacoast residents and visitors a peaceful sanctuary among the tall pines of Little Harbor. Chapel Trails Sanctuary
Following Carey's philosophy of unity, respect for the other
, and his deep love of the Little Harbor woods, the Chapel strives to ensure that the land it stewards remains undeveloped and a safe home for the native flora and fauna that inhabit it. Chapel Trails Sanctuary welcomes walkers to enjoy a network of unmaintained trails through the Chapel's private property, at their own risk. Chapel Trails Sanctuary is a revered place to immerse oneself in the serenity of nature just a few minutes escape from downtown Portsmouth. By making the property accessible, the Chapel provides an open place for the community to foster a spiritual connection with nature and where a shared respect among all who frequent this sacred place can be established. For the comfort of all who access our property, leashed dogs welcome. Founded as a Chapel of the New Jerusalem (Swedenborgian) it was later rededicated as one of few "UN-denominational Chapels" in the world. Carey led many services in the Chapel between 1903 and 1922. His writings on the philosophy of UN-denominational services serve as a guiding principle for the Chapel's Trustees to this day. "The true spirit of religion is like sunshine. I will not try to argue with my brother, not to convert him, but as no one can live without warmth I will try to 'sun him out.' Let us have Unity in endeavor, morals and action. Liberty in doctrine and Vital worth in Everything. If I value my own convictions I will gladly respect those of my neighbor. If I am trying to love him as myself, I will also love and protect his independence." - Arthur Astor Carey, on UN-denominational
Services today celebrate a notable roster of guest ministers from around New England. The historic Chapel bell rings at 11:00AM to commence each service, held Sundays in July and August. The Chapel is available for year round private event rentals.
