Sacred Heart Conventual Chapel Celebrates 100 Years
On September 8th we gathered beneath the towering spire of the Sacred Heart Conventual Chapel, with a century’s worth of memories, prayers, and blessings. This iconic structure, which stands tall on the landscape of San Antonio’s Westside, has been more than just a building. It has been a beacon of hope, an emblem of our faith, and a testament to our enduring spirit.
The English Gothic chapel was the vision of Mother Florence Walter, Superior General of the Congregation of Divine Providence from 1886-1925. In 1895, she looked down from Prospect Hill at a swath of wilderness and declared, “One day we will have a chapel here. And its spires will be seen throughout the city of San Antonio.” Her dream, which spanned nearly four decades, was realized through dedication, perseverance, and the collective support of countless individuals. The mere thought that our Sisters sold needlework, candies, and even collected pennies from the children they taught to fund this sacred establishment is both humbling and awe-inspiring.
Spirit Day, observed by more than 200 Catholic universities nationwide, resonates deeply with the ethos of the Sacred Heart Conventual Chapel. It is a beacon of light, calling upon the Holy Spirit to guide our journey and illuminate our path. And as OLLU celebrated its dedicated faculty and staff, we couldn’t help but see parallels in our own journey. Much like those dedicated faculty and staff who gave over 600 collective years to nurture young minds, our chapel has been a nurturing ground for countless souls.
The magnificent arches and stained-glass windows that adorn the chapel weren’t just the creation of an architect, but the manifestation of a community’s collective dream. The esteemed Leo Dielmann, whose final resting ceremony was held within these very walls, didn’t just draft a design, but etched the spirit of our community into every brick and beam. It’s worth noting the presence of Leo Dielmann’s descendants who graced our celebration. Their legacy, entwined with ours, serves as a testament to the timelessness of dedication and craftsmanship. We’re particularly thankful for Betty Dielman Breen, who played an instrumental role in the chapel’s renovation in the 1990s, ensuring our beloved edifice continued to serve its spiritual purpose for generations to come.
As we marked this centennial celebration, our hearts brimmed with gratitude. Gratitude for Mother Florence’s vision, for the community’s unyielding support, for the countless Masses and ceremonies, and for the opportunity to serve and grow in faith. With the continued support of our cherished community, we look forward to many more centuries.
