Press Releases
New McDonough Chapel and Mercy Ministry Center to Reaffirm Saint Xavier's Catholic Identity
CHICAGO (September 21, 2000) -- Saint Xavier University will mark an important landmark in its 154-year history over the weekend of September 30 and October 1, when it formally dedicates the new McDonough Chapel and Mercy Ministry Center. The structure will be a visible symbol of the institution's Roman Catholic identity and will serve both the University and surrounding community.
The dedication of the McDonough Chapel and Mercy Ministry Center fulfills a long-deferred dream of the Sisters of Mercy and the University. When Saint Xavier moved to its present campus on 103rd Street in the 1950's, funds were available for either a library or a chapel. Sister Josetta Butler, then Dean of Saint Xavier College, said, "We can build the chapel later. But the College must have a library now." From then until now, the University has used a temporary chapel housed in a classroom.
Saint Xavier University is committed to reaffirming its Roman Catholic identity and the McDonough Chapel and Mercy Ministry Center will serve as a prominent symbol of it on campus. The University continues to gain recognition as a leading Catholic institution of higher learning through its programs and institutes which foster theological reflection, moral discourse, pastoral ministry, and responsible Catholic social action.
Named for Jim and Jacque McDonough, whose generous donation made its construction possible, the new chapel will offer space for more than 200 worshippers at University liturgies and religious celebrations. "We're looking forward to having a sacred space to serve our students and the University community," said Eileen Doherty, Director of Campus Ministry.
The new chapel is adorned with many works of sacred art to enhance its mission as a place of worship, prayer, and personal reflection. Inscribed with the names of Sisters of Mercy, the Mercy Heritage Walk outside of the Chapel entrance is an expression of the Saint Xavier community's gratitude, memory, and commitment to the Sisters and their mission. Exterior sculptures and interior bronze elements by Russell Baron were inspired by various aspects of God's presence in faith, Genesis 1:1, and the Celtic roots of the Sisters of Mercy. The statue of Saint Francis Xavier, patron saint of Mother Frances Xavier Warde, American founder of the Sisters of Mercy, serves as a lasting symbol of the University's mission and vision and is located in the foyer. Seasonal art will also adorn the facility's ambulatory. The stained glass by Kenneth vonRoenn, Jr. includes both historic Celtic patterns and contemporary designs. Designed by Mark Joseph Costello, Capuchin, the interior liturgical furnishings, including the altar, ambo, candlesticks, cantor stand and gift tables, are a fitting compliment the chapel's artwork.
The Mercy Ministry Center will house all ministry programs in one site, including Campus Ministry, Pastoral Ministry Institute, and Mercy Care. Campus Ministry provides the pastoral care of University programming for faculty and staff. It offers liturgies, retreats, and volunteer opportunities. Pastoral Ministry Institute is an academic institute for lay ecclesial ministers. It offers ways to deepen one's own spirituality and enhance theological knowledge through workshops and classes for academic credit, as well as a rich variety of educational and ministerial seminars, and events. MercyCare is the ministry of the Sisters of Mercy to the Saint Xavier community.
Saint Xavier University will dedicate the new McDonough Chapel and Mercy Ministry Center over the weekend of September 30 and October 1. Cardinal Francis George, O.M.I., the Archbishop of Chicago, will conduct the Blessing and Prayer Service on the evening of Saturday, September 30 at 7 p.m. and Bishop John Gorman will preside over the Rite of Dedication Liturgy on the morning of Sunday, October 1 at 10 a.m.
Founded in 1846 by the Sisters of Mercy, Saint Xavier University is Chicago's oldest Catholic university.