Dozens of donors and alumni gathered in the Brooklyn Campus’ Kennedy Chapel on April 25 to celebrate recent renovations to the space.
Vice President for Institutional Advancement Rory Shaffer-Walsh provided opening remarks and thanked donors for their support of the Chapels Fund project, which has raised more than $300,000 since early 2021.
Campus Ministries Assistant S. Marie Mackey – who provided guidance and support during the design process – presented the renovations and spoke in depth about the project’s vision.
“It went from vestments to pews for the chapel, and as the donations began to come in, it was no longer just about chairs. We could dream of other possibilities,” S. Marie said to attendees.
The former director of Campus Ministry led a chapel dedication and blessed the donors. All attendees were invited to the Student Lounge in Burns Hall for lunch after the program.
Welcome Updates to a Familiar Space
Since its inception, the Chapels Fund has received contributions from hundreds of donors committed to recognizing the contributions made by the Sisters of St. Joseph to the University.
Among the new additions to the space are statues of the Virgin Mary, St. Joseph the Worker, Ignatius of Loyola and St. Theresa of Avila, all of which hold special significance to the institution and its mission.
“We talked about the most important people to have in this chapel,” S. Marie said. “Our spirituality is an Ignatian spirituality, so we have the statue of St. Ignatius of Loyola for that specific reason.”
New lights were installed, and dark wood panels on the walls were mostly swapped out for lighter ones. The white ceiling was hand-painted with gold trim – a call-back to the institution’s original color scheme.
The tabernacle, believed to be over 60 years old, was refurbished, and a restored crucifix hangs at the front of the chapel.
“I’m very happy that I’ve contributed to a place that I love so much,” said S. Marie. “I appreciate all that you’ve done to support this project.”
