Chapel of the Resurrection
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The Chapel of the Resurrection is the centerpiece structure on the campus of Valparaiso University in Valparaiso, Indiana. It is the largest collegiate chapel in the United States,[1] and one of the largest in the world.
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[edit] Description
The chapel's chancel is 98 feet high and is circular in shape; the roof of the apse is shaped like a nine-pointed star. The nave is 58 feet high and 193 feet long. The building capacity is around 2000, although this number is flexible depending upon the configuration of the pews, which are moveable.
Primarily used to facilitate the many Lutheran campus worship services, the Chapel of the Resurrection also serves as a site for convocations, musical performances, guest lectures, and commencement ceremonies.
Clearly visible from U.S. Route 30 and throughout the surrounding community, the building is located on the highest point of ground on the Valparaiso University campus and is a Northwest Indiana landmark.
[edit] History
Groundbreaking for the Chapel construction took place in 1956. The building was designed by the architectural firm Charles Stade and Associates of Park Ridge, Illinois, though certain elements and features (e.g., the stone baptistry, the stained glass windows, etc.) were designed by other artists. Total construction costs were about $7.5 million, much of which came through individual donations.
The building was dedicated in 1959, part of Valparaiso University's centennial celebration, and officially designated as the Chapel of the Resurrection at the 10th anniversary service in 1969.
[edit] Notes
- ^ Valparaiso University (HTML). Encyclopedia of Chicago. Retrieved on 2006-06-26.
[edit] External links
- Chapel of the Resurrection -- official website
- Virtual tour of the chapel
