Upper School Chapel Revitalized with Support from the 51st Annual Dinner & Auction

Thanks to the generous contributions from the 51st Annual Dinner and Auction, the Upper School Chapel has been beautifully transformed. This significant renovation is part of an ongoing initiative to enrich the spiritual atmosphere of the Upper School, creating a space that encourages reflection, prayer, and a deeper connection to the Catholic faith. Notable additions include a stunning new crucifix from Belgium and a set of new Stations of the Cross from Ukraine. “The chapel project is progressing wonderfully, and I’m thrilled to have helped redesign the space to make it more welcoming for everyone. The new crucifix is my favorite addition—it’s absolutely beautiful,” said senior Allison Bieron.

These upgrades highlight the school’s commitment to fostering an environment conducive to both personal and communal prayer. The renovations embody the community’s dedication to the spiritual development of its students and staff, while also serving as a lasting tribute to the 51st Annual Dinner and Auction. Senior Josh Powell, another student involved in the project, shared his thoughts: “With the newly painted walls, updated lighting, and new floors, the chapel now feels like an entirely new space for worship and fellowship. It’s been incredibly rewarding to contribute to the renovation, and I’m excited to see what future projects we can add as the year continues.”

The improvements, renovations, and ideas are all thanks to a wonderful committee of students, teachers, and community members. The Chapel Committee includes Josh Powell, Allison Bieron, Reese Ellis, Carmen Ramiro, Connor Jordan, Allison Niles, Gabriel Sauceda, Dominic Sauceda, Evan Blinn, Vera Duncan, Lauren McCourt, Mrs. Ramiro, Dr. Blinn, Ms. Krus, Mr. DeLaney, Bryce McHose ’24, Claire Phillips ’24, Luke Harlow ’24, Elizabeth Hamner ’24, and Linwood Burton and Busch Construction.

Key improvements to the chapel include the following:

·         Old carpet removed and new Floor all through the chapel and sacristy.

·         New lighting in chapel ceiling.

·         Door to the back office was drywalled and painted to create a new focal point in the chapel for a new crucifix.

·         New crucifix was purchased. This was chosen by the group of students and teachers on the chapel renovation committee. This 19^th century wooden carved crucifix from a former Catholic school in Belgium.

·         New stations of the Cross donated by Bush Construction. The stations were purchased from a small family woodcarving business in Ukraine.

Several additional improvements are still underway, with more updates expected soon:

·         New tabernacle light.

·         Kneelers for front of chapel.

·         Benches for the rear of the chapel to form a communal prayer space for student prayer groups, faculty prayer, and classes.

·         New rugs for the chapel.

·         New chairs for chapel and for the celebrant at school Masses.

·         Bookshelf and prayer resources.

·         Student made artwork.

·         Student made processional cross for Mass.