Altar of the Atonement. “…surmounted by a 16-foot-high crucifixion scene. Flanking the altar are Stations of the Cross leading down to the St. Anthony Shrine”.

Driving north on Route 9, just before the turnoff for Route 403 you’ll see the entrance to Graymoor on the right. Also known as “The Holy Mountain” it’s the home of the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement”.

Its website says:

Over a century ago, Fr. Paul Wattson, the founder of the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement, was searching for a name for a new religious society. Opening the scriptures at random, his eyes fell upon the eleventh verse of the fifth chapter of St. Paul’s epistle to the Romans: “…we also joy in God, through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.” The last word of the verse stood out with a vividness that was to him overwhelming at-one-ment. And so, the Society had found its name.

It’s a pleasant place to visit with some nice shrines, spectacular views, and interesting views. It would be a very tranquil place to just sit around for a while – but not at the moment. There’s lots of construction going on, which distracts from the tranquility and also blocks access to an views of some of the nicer buildings.

Text in quotes is from the official “Map of Graymoor” brochure.

Detail of the Altar of Atonement.

St. Anthony Shrine. “Erected in 1960, this is the largest shrine at Graymoor. The culmination of Father Paul’s dream to build a grand shrine to the Saint, it is constructed of granite and fieldstone and features a marble statue of him holding the child Jesus.”

Father Paul’s Tomb. “Dedicated in October 1971 and occupying a spot Father Paul called Calvary Rock, his tomb bears the words of Christ, “That They All May Be One”, which compelled him to spend his life praying and working for Christian Unity. A replica of Michelangelo’s Pieta overlooks the tomb. Beyond the Pieta is a spectacular view. On a clear day you can see New York City.”

The spectacular view, but not looking in the direction of New York City.

One of the many statues. This one is spooky. Reminds me of the “Weeping Angels” in Doctor Who. Don’t like the way it’s reaching out towards me!