Chapel of the Snows

The Chapel of the Snows
The Chapel of the Snows, 2008
Religion
AffiliationChristianity (Catholic, Latter Day Saints, Protestant)
RegionMcMurdo Sound (Ross Island)
Ecclesiastical or organizational statusActive
Year consecrated1956
Location
LocationAntarctica
MunicipalityMcMurdo Station
StateAntarctic Treaty System
Interactive map of The Chapel of the Snows
TerritoryAntarctica
Architecture
TypeChurch
StyleModern
Funded byUnited States Government
Completed1956
(destroyed by fire in 1978, rebuilt in 1989)
Specifications
Capacity63
Dome0
Spire1
MaterialsWood

The Chapel of the Snows is a non-denominational Christian church at the United States' McMurdo Station on Ross Island, Antarctica. Initially built from scrap material in 1956, it burned down in 1978 and was rebuilt in 1989. It is one of eight churches on Antarctica and the only interfaith church there, having both Protestant and Catholic services. In addition, the Church also hosts several other religious groups and community organizations, including a sobriety group. Each year the famed Erebus Chalice is brought down for the austral summer.

The church is noted for its southerly religious location and unique architectural flourishes, such as penguins in the stained glass windows.