A Sacred Space Renewed: Our First Mass in the New Chapel

On September 30, 2026, the Ursuline Sisters, members of the Board of Trustees, coworkers and friends celebrated the first Mass in the renovated Ursuline Chapel.

President Peggy Slater shared that the vision for updating this sacred space took shape over several years but became a real possibility last year when repairs to the roof resolved years-long water issues. The vision was shared at last year’s UA Soiree and donors to the Fund-A-Need responded with incredible generosity, allowing the renovation to take place during the summer. 

In addition to structural repairs and painting, improvements include a new sound system and LED lighting that greatly enhances the stained glass windows. With the support of Fr. Bob Burkemper, of St. Mark Catholic Church, Ursuline received pews, altar furniture, statues and a tabernacle, all of which were previously in use at St. Bernadette and St. Mathias parishes. 

Board member Lisa Hackett commented, “I kept thinking about the people who prayed in these pews before us.” Her comments echoed Fr. Bob’s homily in which he reminded us that we are not “parishes” so much as one community of faith.

We are grateful for the generosity of our donors and to two special friends of Ursuline who gave of their resources and time to create a space that is updated but true to the character of Ursuline Academy. The work of Joe Koppeis and Joe Fogarty was true Serviam in action!