A historic moment unfolded at Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart as the Duchesne Chapel was dedicated, and its brand-new altar was blessed. This significant event, held during the school's annual Alumnae Reunion Weekend, marks a milestone in the school's history.
Duchesne welcomed several distinguished guests, including Religious of the Sacred Heart Sisters Suzanne Cooke, Sheila Hammond, Lucy Hayes, and Nancy Kehoe, who traveled to Omaha specifically for this event. Their presence underscored the enduring connection between the Duchesne Academy and the Religious of the Sacred Heart, who founded the school and continue to play a vital role in its educational mission.
The Chapel, the physical and spiritual center of the Academy, recently underwent extensive renovations as part of the A Bold Step Forward campaign. This campaign, the most ambitious in Duchesne’s history, aims to ensure that the school's facilities meet the evolving needs of its students.
Central to the chapel's renovation is the installation of a new marble altar, a masterpiece of craftsmanship and artistry. During the Mass, Archbishop George Lucas placed relics of Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne in the reliquary which was constructed using existing marble elements from within the Chapel.
During his homily, Archbishop Lucas praised the school's dedication to faith-based education and commended its efforts to preserve and enhance the spiritual heart of the institution.
“To undertake a refreshment of the chapel and to do something a little different takes some courage and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. So, thanks for doing it; this is what people have always loved, and it’s even better,” he said.
In addition to the blessing of the altar, Head of School Meg Brudney dedicated the chapel and its sacristy to two RSCJ who attended Duchesne College and worked at the school for many years. The chapel is dedicated in honor of Shirley Miller, RSCJ, C’63, and the sacristy honors Lucy Hayes, RSCJ, C’51.
