Lee University to Dedicate New Chapel
Cleveland, Tenn.–The long-anticipated completion of a distinctive new chapel edifice at Lee University will culminate when the structure is officially dedicated in several ceremonies over the next two weeks.
Lee University Chapel
The chapel, unique in comparison to other campus structures, is part of a long-time dream of Lee University president Dr. Paul Conn who has been at the helm of the university since 1986. The architecture inside and out, is unlike any other of the more than two dozen buildings constructed over the last 25 years of Conn’s leadership.
According to an article which appeared in the Chattanooga Times Free Press, Conn and his wife, Darlia, began talking about a chapel on campus 12 years ago. But the immediate need was to provide residence halls for a growing campus and then modern classrooms, he said. With the completion of the new Science and Mathematics Building last year, energy and resources could be directed to the chapel.
The chapel was built for small worship and spiritual activities, including dedication and communion services for student groups, such as clubs, choirs, and dormitories. It is also intended to be a quiet, worshipful place that will be open day and evenings for individuals. It is already being touted as a beautiful setting for weddings and similar events of a quiet nature with spiritual significance that would not be particularly suitable for larger venues on campus.
Lee University chapel interior
The sanctuary’s vaulted ceiling and large windows bring in outside light, and some stained glass features symbolic reminders of the Church of God’s creed. The interior of the edifice is equipped with pews made especially for the university, complete with the university logo carved in the ends. The entrance is enhanced by a glorious copper-topped steeple. Outside a large courtyard suitable for receptions and other gatherings, is adjacent to a full reception hall and staging area on the ground level. By using the transept, balcony and choir for overflow seating, the chapel’s capacity can be as high as 300.
The first dedication event will be held this evening (November 3) as the university’s board of directors will preview the chapel and conduct a short service. This event will be streamed live on the internet at www.leeuniversity.edu and clicking on the “Homecoming Live Stream” button. The rest of the weekend the building will be open for tours by friends and alumni attending Homecoming with an official ribbon-cutting and prayer of dedication on Saturday, November 5 at 6:00 p.m.
Several other preview, dedication and inaugural events will take place throughout November and December and include a service exclusively for the faculty and staff, a community open house, a “redback hymnal” nostalgia night on November 21, and two Christmas events.
