Chapel
St. Charles Catholic High School’s newest construction is new the 126-seat chapel at heart of the campus, a building designed for the Christian formation of the River Parishes’ young people centered around the Blessed Sacrament. The chapel holds a significant place in the hearts of students and teachers alike because of the events held in the chapel and the special bonds shared by the community members who worship together in the space. Located in a shaded courtyard behind the school building, the chapel offers a quiet place away from the hustle and bustle of the hallways and classrooms. Throughout the school year, religion classes gather for prayer, Rosary, and the Stations of the Cross. Eucharistic prayer and adoration take place during the school year, and each Thursday, SCC’s Campus Ministry hosts a lunchtime prayer meeting. At SCC, young people deepen their intellect and harness wisdom through a challenging and supportive, biblically based community that gathers in this new and delightful chapel.
Architect and alumnus Michael J. Roussel designed and the chapel and oversaw the construction. Mr. Roussel is a 1985 graduate of St. Charles Catholic High School and a 1988 graduate of LSU with a Bachelor of Architecture degree. He is a partner with the Verges-Rome Architect design firm in New Orleans. When asked about his work and return to his alma mater, Mr. Roussel stated, “When I was a student at St. Charles Catholic High School, the Chapel was in a classroom adjacent to the school’s main entrance and office at the one of the busiest parts of the building. The opportunity to create a new space for spiritual reflection and celebration of our faith at my alma mater was an honor. It is rewarding to hear from the school community that our design has achieved the intended goals.”
The design is perfect for the students and teachers of the school. Little details of the design add to the delight of the space. The crucifix above the altar is highlighted by natural light pouring through the highly placed windows. The cement floors have leaf impressions left from the trees in the courtyard. Along the walls of the new chapel are the intriguing Stations of the Cross which were designed and created by Jim Schexnayder, past parent and grandparent to SCC students. These touches are part of what make the chapel feel like home for the Comets.
The school community is eternally grateful to the tremendous communal and alumni support in ensuring that over 300 Chapel furnishings have been pledged and paid for because of the deep faith of those in the River Parishes. There are still giving opportunities both large and small, and SCC is appreciative of any type of gift that will allow future generations to enjoy the Chapel.
The solid oak and caned chairs provide reverence and a glimpse of the past while still looking forward to the revelation of God. There are chair memorials still available for $250 per chair. Please contact the Director of Human Resources and Development, Zach Weber if you are interested in a chair memorial or have any further questions. We have many other giving opportunities Available in to the Chapel. We are so grateful for the support and prayers of our community.