The shrine's history began back in 1958 when the Oblates decided to build a shrine in honor of Our Lady of the Snows. The Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows itself was inspired by a painting by J. Watson Davis that is currently on display in the lobby of the Visitors Center at the Shrine.
The Shrine started with an original purchase of 80 acres of land along the Mississippi near Belleville, Illinois. An additional 20 acres was purchased through the work of the Layman's Association and work started on the Shrine in the summer of 1958. The Shrine depicts modern architecture and landscape design. The layout of the facility allowed for the placement of multiple devotional areas and beautiful gardens. These devotional spaces allow for visitors to find spiritual renewals in St. Louis.
The indoor church at the location was completed in 1990 and it provides an indoor space for visitors to worship on a daily basis. The contemporary design of the church was created in order to best serve the needs of all who worship there.
The Shrine is a host to many pilgrims each year who come to the Shrine to worship and grow spiritually. Some of the programs offered at the Shrine include:
- Hispanic Ministry
- Liturgical Ministry
- Victorious Missionaries
- Youth Ministry
- Support Ministry
- Special Events Ministry
- Minds Eye Information Service
The Shrine was built with the intention of helping people of all backgrounds grow stronger in their own personal beliefs and religions. Pilgrims to the Shrine come looking for spiritual renewals in St. Louis. The devotional areas, daily masses, and special programs help those who make the pilgrimage to the Shrine reawaken their individual feelings of spirituality.
The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows welcomes all who wish to worship and pray. Visitors often leave the Sshrine with a rejuvenated mind, body, and spirit.