STEUBENVILLE — The Christ the King Chapel at Franciscan University of Steubenville has undergone a significant renovation, reopening its doors after 15 months of work. This revamped space now serves as the spiritual heart of campus life, enhancing the experience for all who enter.
The renovation nearly doubled the chapel’s seating capacity, going from 325 to 590. It includes a new altar, tabernacle, sacred art, and beautiful stained-glass windows, all aimed at uplifting the worship experience.
This project, costing $16.5 million, is part of a larger push called the Rebuild My Church Capital Campaign, which has raised more than $126 million for various university improvements, including academic programs and student scholarships.
During the reopening Mass, led by Bishop Edward M. Lohse, attendees witnessed the anointing of the new altar and a special ceremony involving the relics of several saints. Lohse shared insights on the importance of sacred spaces, highlighting that while their beauty matters, the true essence lies in the community gathered there. He urged everyone to appreciate not just the chapel’s architecture but the faith shared within it.
The chapel, originally built in 1969, has seen many students and faculty embark on spiritual journeys. Rev. Dave Pivonka, the university president, noted the incredible global connection to the university’s mission. He stated, “What we do here at Franciscan University matters… countless lives have been transformed here.” This echoes a trend observed on social media, where alumni frequently express gratitude for their experiences at the chapel, emphasizing its profound impact on their faith journeys.
Rev. Pivonka also remarked on the chapel’s simple yet profound beauty. “It was never beautiful by worldly standards,” he said, “But it was holy.” This belief in the chapel’s sacred legacy influenced the decision to preserve its original structure while enhancing it to meet current needs.
Echoing the spirit of St. Francis, Rev. Jonathan St. Andre contemplated the importance of renovation in Christian tradition. St. Francis renovated chapels 800 years ago, and this modern renovation aims to inspire a similar spiritual renewal for today’s community.
Every aspect of the renovation was designed to draw people closer to faith. For instance, a mural of Christ the King at the entrance welcomes visitors, while the baptismal font symbolizes the beginning of Christian life. Inside the sanctuary, a deep blue ceiling adorned with golden stars evokes a sense of heaven, providing a meaningful backdrop for worship.
Additionally, new side chapels and private prayer areas cater to both individual and communal worship, ensuring that the chapel meets the diverse spiritual needs of the campus community. The improvements don’t stop inside; the plaza surrounding the chapel will soon feature gardens and a welcoming entryway, creating an inviting atmosphere for all.
In a world that often feels disconnected, the chapel aims to be a constant source of grace and community. “Our greatest hope is that this chapel will form saints,” stated Rev. Pivonka. The renovations not only beautify the space but also deepen the spiritual experience for everyone who enters, echoing the timeless mission of the university and the Franciscan tradition.
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Community,Franciscan University celebrates its recently renovated chapel
