Welcome to Schoenstatt Australia!
Schoenstatt is an international Marian movement of renewal founded by Father Joseph Kentenich on 18 October 1914 in a small chapel in Germany, now known as the Original Shrine. The founding act was a Covenant of Love with the Blessed Mother, which remains the heart of Schoenstatt spirituality.
Open to people from all walks of life, Schoenstatt offers a practical way to live the Gospel through everyday life. Throughout the year, a variety of groups, retreats, reflection days, and gatherings provide opportunities for faith formation, community, and support.
As the Schoenstatt Movement grew, Fr Kentenich founded the Secular Institute of the Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary on 1 October 1926. The Sisters arrived in Australia in 1951 and helped establish and develop the movement here.
Australia is home to two Schoenstatt Shrines, located in Mulgoa, Sydney and Mount Richon, Perth both with Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary and retreat facilities. There is also an image of the Mother Thrice Admirable in the Divine Mercy Chapel at St Luke’s Parish, Wantirna, Melbourne.
We invite you to explore the website or come visit one of the locations to discover more about Schoenstatt, its spirituality, and the opportunities available to become involved.