2008 Woodie Awards
Evelyn Chapel, a local Piece of History
Amy Gorczowski
Issue date: 10/29/07 Section: Features
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"It's very welcoming," Reverend Hope Luckie, said.
Upon entrance to the chapel, the first detail one might notice is the size, since the chapel is actually quite small. Built in 1984, the two-story chapel was designed by Ben Weese, Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, of Weese Hickey Weese in Chicago.
"Regular weekly services are held on Wednesday at 10 a.m.," Luckie said. "And Catholic services are held Friday at noon and Sunday at 10 a.m."
Even with set services, Luckie stressed that the chapel is almost always open for those who wish to use it on their own.
"It's open from [about] 6:30 a.m. until 10 p.m.," Luckie said. "Anyone is welcome to come in and sit and pray."
By anyone, Luckie really does mean anyone. The Evelyn Chapel and those who work there pride themselves on its multi-denominational factor.
"Upstairs there's a meditation space," Luckie said. "There's space for Muslims to have their prayer."
Luckie added prayer rugs, which have been added for student and community use from the Islamic center. Perhaps less known among students, there is also a space for Puja.
"Puja is the Hindu form of prayer," Luckie explained. "It's more individual."
Addressing the needs of all in the community allows the Evelyn Chapel to have the welcoming environment that its facilitators hope to create.
The scalloped balconies, along with the small pillars lining the aisles add to the richness of the space. Simplicity is created with the simple white and gray color scheme, with a hint of burgundy in the carpet.
Another astounding aspect of the chapel, aside from its greatness in architecture, is its acoustic quality.
"It's acoustically perfect," Luckie said.
Luckie explained that the sound travels through the chapel very well.
"If I was standing in the altar area, I could speak in my regular voice and be heard in the back."
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