The Lord blessed years of prayer and planning with the gift of this newly-constructed Chapel-Student Center, located in the heart of the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus
A: The original facility lacked space and technology to expand our ministry. At the onset of our planning we made two attempts to add to the original 9,000 sq ft Chapel. But after evaluating the cost, parking needs, and the desired space (26,000 sq ft) to double our ministry—as well as complying with City of Madison codes and restrictions—we decided it was better stewardship to rebuild.
We rented this building at 240 W Gilman during the construction of the new Chapel-Student center
A: God provided us with a rental building at 240 W Gilman—right next to our property. We did not see a decrease in participation; in fact, we had record attendance for our two Ash Wednesday services at the temporary location!
A: We held a special dedication worship service on February 26, 2006. Over 700 students, parents, members, alumni, internationals, Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS) officials, and other friends of the Chapel joined in the celebration.
International Pastor Emeritus John Chworowsky and friends at our Dedication Sunday worship service
A: Yes! We continue to see record attendance as more and more students become involved in worship.
A: Along with monies budgeted into the project, we asked for in-kind gifts. Thanks to everyone who donated!
A: Yes. We designed the building to allow for the addition of two more floors.
A: We can house up to six housefellows. Their duties include serving as receptionists, hosting events, helping with custodial work, and overseeing security.
A: The total cost was approximately $5.9 million (unexpected ground level challenges raised our previous estimate.) This figure includes the $4.6 million for construction, furnishing estimates, interest estimates, fundraising, design, consulting and temporary relocation.
Chapel's steeple and rooftop are visible here against the downtown Madison skyline
A: $1 million from the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (Forward in Christ—cross-cultural), $1 million from an anonymous donor, $1 million from congregational commitments and assets, $2.9 million from foundations, congregations, alumni, parents, friends and Chapel members, and some additional financial support from the Madison community. We have received cash and pledge commitments of up to 5 years. Interim financing allowed us to proceed with construction, but we still need to raise approximately $955,000 in gifts and pledges to complete funding for the project.
A: The Chapel ministry prepares many talented students (laity) for adult Christian leadership in local congregations and the WELS at large. We build up those students who come to us, bring back those who have drifted from us (70% of WELS youth confirmands leave the church by age 19) and bring in those who do not know Jesus.
A: Please visit the Support Us page to learn how you can help financially support Chapel's mission "To Know Jesus Christ and Make Him Known on Campus".
Chapel is a member of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS), a Lutheran denomination of Christianity founded in Wisconsin in 1850. To learn more about the WELS visit www.wels.net.
