Our new Chapel is the focal point of Christ's healing ministry at St. James Healthcare. It is open to all and ALL ARE WELCOME!!!
The chapel was designed as a house of prayer for spiritual comfort and quiet reflection. All are welcome — patients, families, visitors, staff, volunteers — people of ALL FAITH TRADITIONS! The Roman Catholic liturgy of the Eucharist is celebrated regularly in this chapel.
In 2001, Father Dan Hillen was commissioned by St. James Healthcare to design stained glass windows, Stations of the Cross and sanctuary furniture for the Chapel located near the entrance to the new lobby.
The abstract stained glass windows suggest creation, the greater and lesser lights mentioned in the book of Genesis and our connection to the entire universe.
Father Hillen commissioned the colored antique glasses from Lambert's Studio, located in Wallsassen, Germany. Each sheet of glass measures approximately 2' x 3'. This is a lengthy process where the glass is mouth-blown into large cylinders and then slowly cooled. The cylinders are then cut open and placed into a kiln where they are flattened.
The glasses are called antique because of the texture on the surface made by passing the still hot cylinder over a rough metal surface creating scratches on the surface, a sort of crystallized appearance. The white and iridescent (mother of pearl) glasses were manufactured by the Spectrum Glass Company in Seattle, Washington.
Sanctuary Furnishings:
The altar, ambo (pulpit) tabernacle and stand, presider's chair, candle holder and holy water stand were designed by Father Hillen and fabricated by wood artist, Dave Carlson, of Helena, Montana. The wood used was Honduran Mahogany with brass holders.
Stations of the Cross:
The Stations of the Cross were also designed by Father Hillen. They were laser cut and set in the stone floor so that one can walk the stations as they pray.
In view of Father Dan Hillen's unexpected death in July 2003, we would like you to know that our St. James Healthcare Chapel was one of his most recent artistic accomplishments. May he rest in peace.
Mass is celebrated Monday–Wednesday at 11 a.m. in the Chapel located on the first floor.