OUR BEGINNING...

In the fall of 2005, Fr. Bonfiglio began a series of listening sessions with various constituents of the Jesuit High School community (students, staff, faculty, administrators, alumni, benefactors, trustees and the Jesuit Community) to hear desires and solicit ideas for a chapel on the Jesuit campus.  Fr. Gilbert Sunghera, S.J., from the Detroit Collaborative Design Center, outlined a process for understanding contemporary liturgical space and for selecting an architectural firm. A Chapel Design Advisory Committee, comprised of faculty, administrators and trustees, was formed to give definition to the chapel and to establish criteria for including site identification and the selection of the architect.

OUR VISION...

In the tradition of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus, Jesuit education is committed to the development of the whole person through a challenging educational experience of academic excellence, co-curricular involvement, and spiritual and religious formation. The entire school program is dedicated to developing conscientious leaders and agents of change who are intellectually distinguished, morally courageous, and compassionate in service to others for the greater glory of God.

The Chapel of the North American Martyrs must embody and convey a welcoming spirit for the larger Jesuit High School Community, which includes students, alumni, faculty and staff, parents, and other friends. This sacred space will also serve the larger Sacramento region as a place for programs that support the faith of this community, through lectures, concerts, retreats, and more. Though the main function of this chapel is for large liturgical events, this chapel will need to accommodate these other functions, as well as providing an intimate space that invites individuals of all groups to find refuge in the midst of daily life for prayer and reflection. As a sacred space in service to a holistic educational program, this chapel must promote a sense of noble simplicity while stirring the religious imagination of those who visit.

In is anticipated that the Chapel structure will be approximately 10,000 square feet, with a large dedicated worship space (seating for 350) that inspires a sense of mystery and awe. The building is to be a landmark structure and would ideally draw students from the main campus during their free time. Exterior courtyards and gardens will be integrated into the design of the complex to promote a sense of transition from active campus life to more contemplative sacred space. 

OUR JOURNEY...

In the fall of 2005, Fr. Bonfiglio began a series of listening sessions with various constituents of the Jesuit High School community (students, staff, faculty, administrators, alumni, benefactors, trustees and the Jesuit Community) to hear desires and solicit ideas for a chapel on the Jesuit campus.  Fr. Gilbert Sunghera, S.J., from the Detroit Collaborative Design Center, outlined a process for understanding contemporary liturgical space and for selecting an architectural firm. A Chapel Design Advisory Committee, comprised of faculty, administrators and trustees, was formed to give definition to the chapel and to establish criteria for including site identification and the selection of the architect.

 

OUR PROGRESS...

A sub-committee of the Chapel Design Advisory Committee, after an extensive search, chose the internationally acclaimed firm of Hodgetts + Fung Design and Architecture to design the chapel and meditation garden as well as provide the concept plan for the adjoining property. During late 2007, Hodgetts + Fung provided site plans in response to input received from both school and board leadership. After finalizing the site plan, they moved on to chapel concepts. To assist with the design process, four additional committees were formed. The Construction Resource Committee includes five members of the Board of Trustees, along with the school leadership team and representatives of the construction trades. Three other “mission” committees are chaired by members of the Jesuit faculty/staff: Philosophy/Ignatian Identity, led by Fr. Kevin Leidich, S.J.; Liturgy/Ritual Design – Charlene Cardenas; Art & Furnishings – David Bischoff ’79. Design concepts were presented to the Chapel Design Advisory Committee and various constituents of the Jesuit High School community (students, staff, faculty, administrators, alumni, benefactors, trustees and the Jesuit Community) for their input throughout the winter and spring of 2008. The placement of the chapel has been determined, as well as the basic exterior approach and interior layout.  The details are not final; feedback is being sought from the County Planning Department and neighbors.  We hope to break ground soon; however the date for beginning this important project depends on the success of our fundraising efforts. 
 

To learn more about the Chapel Project, naming opportunities and donation options,
please contact
MAUREEN BANCHERO LONGYEAR
Jesuit's Director of Development
916.482.6060 x335
longyearm@jhssac.org

AMDG - For The Greater Glory of God