Windows to the Soul Campaign
“Gratitude is the fairest blossom which springs from the soul.” Henry Ward Beecher
Purpose
Our Windows to the Soul Campaign seeks to raise funds to restore the Notre Dame du
Lac chapel windows. The estimated cost to repair the windows is $100,000.
History of the du Lac Chapel Windows
The Notre Dame du Lac Chapel windows date back to 1926. They were custom made for our chapel in Germany.
The chapel was not part of the original convent construction in 1904 as it
took 22 years
to raise enough money to build the magnificent chapel. The du Lac Chapel was dedicated to
Our Lady, with each of the 12 soaring windows in the chapel dedicated to Mary
through her many titles and images. Examples of the titles and stained glass
images include: mystical rose, star of the sea and spiritual vessel. The first Mass was celebrated
on June 28, 1927. An early description of the chapel as it appears in the annals is as follows:
“When one enters the “House of God”, the noble proportions, the lightness and brightness,
the grace and dignity, the atmosphere of devotion and peace charm even the casual visitor.”
Why repair the chapel windows?
Restoring the windows is important because the windows provide a lens into the past history of the Sisters of Notre Dame.
The windows are distinctive, valuable and uniquely correspond to the original dedication of the “Our Lady” chapel
The windows are now 80 years old and have suffered extensive wear and tear over the years and are now in a state of disrepair with pieces falling out.
The Notre Dame du Lac Chapel and its windows represent a gathering place for the energy, prayers
and intentions of an active, faith filled community.
Windows to the Soul Campaign
Throughout the year we will be holding various fundraisers as part of the campaign.
One of the primary fundraisers for the Windows to the Soul campaign will be an attractive
donation Tree, which will be installed in the vestibule of the chapel. Donors can contribute
by purchasing a leaf for $250 and have their name, or a name in memoriam, inscribed on the
leaves. An opportunity is also available to adopt and name an individual window in the
chapel for $5000. All donation amounts are welcome and will be graciously received,
recognized in a donor book in the chapel and will be prayed over by the Sisters of Notre Dame.
