New Chapel takes pride of place at SJOG Murdoch Hospital
St John of God Murdoch Hospital unveiled its new chapel and renovated foyer at a blessing ceremony on May 30. Photo: Supplied.
St John of God Murdoch Hospital has unveiled its new Chapel and renovated foyer at a blessing ceremony led by Archdiocese of Perth Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton.
The event was held on May 17 and attended by about 100 people, including Group CEO of St John of God Health Care (SJGHC) Michael Stanford, SJGHC board members and trustees, Sr Isobel Moran and the Sisters of St John of God, Sr Edith Murphy, colleagues from SJGHC and health industry and medical practitioners.
Designed by architectural firm, Silver Thomas Hanley, the chapel features natural sandstone from Donnybrook used in some Western Australian churches and major public buildings including Parliament House and the Perth General Post Office.
The stained glass window had its origins in other St John of God facilities in WA.
St John of God Murdoch Hospital CEO, John Fogarty said the old Chapel had stood the hospital and hospice in very good stead for more than 20 years, but it was time for a Chapel that reflected the growth of both the hospital and the community.
St John of God Health Care CEO John Fogarty, Sr Gratiae O’Shaughnessy SJG, Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton, Group CEO Michael Stanford and Murdoch Hospital Director of Mission Colin Keogh. Photo: Supplied.
“It was time to build a chapel that reflected our growing services and to align with the contemporary feel of the rest of our renovations and refurbishments,” Mr Fogarty said.
“We hope people of all faiths and all backgrounds will find in this Chapel a space for quiet reflection and prayer, in times of stress, joy and sadness.”
Architect Basil Vogas said that by placing the Chapel in a prominent exposed position, the mission and values of the hospital were also placed at the forefront.
“Our goal was to create a space for quiet reflection which could be used by all and at the same time, reinforce the St John of God Health Care Mission,” Mr Vogas said.