The Most Rev. Paul S. Loverde of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington enters Marymount University’s Sacred Heart of Mary Chapel for the Mass and Chapel Blessing, March 22. Photo Contributed
Twenty-two custom-designed stained-glass windows were the inspiration for the first renovation to the Sacred Heart of Mary Chapel in its 62-year history at the heart of the Marymount University campus. On Sunday morning, March 22, the Most Rev. Paul S. Loverde of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington celebrated Mass after blessing the chapel and the artist-commissioned windows, as well as all who would enter through the doors.
Each of the 22 windows reflects an aspect of the Catholic faith or honors the traditions of Marymount University and its founders, The Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary (RSHM). Planning began in 2012 for the chapel renovation, which also included a redesigned entrance with portico, renovated sanctuary with custom designed altar, lectern and presider chairs, Stations of the Cross and statuary, pews and kneelers, new flooring, new lighting and sound system and a meditation garden.
According to Marymount First Lady Lynne Shank, who led the project, the design of the windows needed to be detailed but still allow natural light into the newly renovated sanctuary.