MacGorman Chapel Dedication

In 2007 (my next to last semester and spencer's last as a masters student) the vision was released to build a new chapel for the growing student body at Southwestern. Over the next 4 years, old housing was torn down and an almost always empty parking lot was re-landscaped in order for the new chapel to be built. It took about 14 months for the construction of the chapel itself, with men working vigorously to meet the Dec. 1, 2011 deadline - which was scheduled to hold the dedication and Handel's Messiah performance that night. The chapel itself is named after Professor Emeritus, Dr. J.W. "Jack" MacGorman (who is probably around 90 yrs old). As a side note, you can usually spot him easily if he's on campus by the plaid driving hat he wears...he also still speaks with a heavy Scottish accent! The tower is a prayer room that over looks the campus and the surrounding community. Many of the rooms were dedicated to the people that gave money toward the construction. Some of the rooms include a Dead Sea Scroll Library, the prayer tower room, the family room, and the guest room for speakers. Along one hall there are handwritten sermon notes (orignals) from well known pastors and evangelist that Dr. Patterson graciously put on display. There is also a baptistry in the foyer that was donated by a local church so that young men can practice baptizing in the pastoral ministry classes before they go on to pastor a church of their own. The chapel is where they will now hold all graduation ceremonies, so Spencer will be getting his Doctoral Degree very soon here! The ribbon cutting was outside (media was present) in a brisk 50 degrees early in the morning and was followed by the chapel dedication service (which was a little emotional for many, including us). 2 people were saved during the service and many others confirmed calls God had on their lives! The music was beautiful and the speeches were Biblical and encouraging! Spencer and I are so proud, honored and humbled to be Southwesterners!! The MacGorman Chapel
Dr. Patterson


Chapel dedication service (we are sitting on the left)

The baptistry for future ministers to practice

another view of the chapel

another view from the balcony

Ribbon cutting, from left (Dr. & Mrs. MacGorman, Mr & Mrs Riley, Dr. Patterson)

One of the halls containing sermon notes of historical pastors/evangelists

Touring the new chapel (kind of blurry)

Dr. MacGorman closing the service with prayer

Dr. Patterson giving a brief and powerful message

view from our seats...the orchestra warming up

The program for the day

view overlooking the foyer from the 2nd floor

looking down into the practice baptistry