Mount St. Benedict Chapel Renovation Progress
August 2006 - June 2007


Art in the chapel
New art pieces have been commissioned as part of the renovation of the monastery chapel. This new work will complement the exisiting stained glass art found in the chapel as well as the aesthetics of the design completed by the architectural firm Beringer Ciaccio Dennell Mabrey (BCDM) of Omaha, Neb.

The water symbol is being designed by John Lajiba, a sculptor from Omaha, Neb. After several visits to the community, time spent in prayer in the chapel and walking the grounds of the monastery on Lake Erie, John conceived of a design that would be an "environment" that speaks spiritually and allows interaction/relationship; one that would have an integrity of time and vigilance as well as an aspect of gentleness and care.

Liturgical furnishings (altar, ambo, tabernacle stand and candle stands) are the design of Amy Zweiback, a designer with BCDM. The wood pieces she designed will be constructed by New Holland Church Furniture. New Holland is also constructing the chairs for the chapel

Sister Audrey Steff, an accomplished wood turner, has designed several wooden candle and book stands for use in community worship. She will now design and fabricate a stand for the paschal candle that will reflect the new design of the chapel

Handweaver Sister Linda Romey who has also designed and woven pieces for use in liturgical settings, will weave fabric screens for use in the new reconciliation room.

The original stained glass windows in the chapel foyer were designed by Sister Mary Bernard Niebling. They are being refurbished and will be placed in the Chapel of Reservation. The chapel windows, designed by Winterich with input from a committee, are also being refurbished before being re-installed.