Amidst the gentle sway of Illinois prairie grass, a beacon of faith and learning stands tall: the Martin and Janet Ozinga Chapel. This isn’t just a chapel. It’s a testament to the vision and generosity of a man named Martin Ozinga Jr., a founding father of Trinity Christian College. The Martin and Janet Ozinga Chapel, dedicated in 2001, is more than just a place of worship. It’s the vibrant heart of Trinity’s music department, a place where melodies rise and futures are shaped. Martin Ozinga Jr. was one of the ten visionaries who, in the 1950s, dreamt of a Christian college in the Chicago area. Their dedication birthed Trinity Christian College, and the Ozinga Chapel stands as a physical embodiment of their enduring legacy. Martin’s commitment to faith and education echoes through the chapel’s halls.
The Martin and Janet Ozinga Chapel isn’t just a beautiful building. It houses a magnificent Lauck organ, specifically designed for its unique acoustics. The organ boasts a French-terraced console, crafted from cherry wood to harmonize with the chapel’s aesthetic. Rosewood accents and bone naturals add a touch of elegance. The organ’s pipes, polished to a gleaming sheen, command attention, filling the chapel with rich, resonant tones. This instrument is not just a musical masterpiece. It’s a tool for worship, a testament to the power of music to uplift and inspire. The chapel’s design reflects a modern sensibility, a testament to the ever-evolving nature of faith and learning.
Martin Ozinga Jr. was a man of deep faith, a pillar of the community, and a devoted family man. He served as president of the First National Bank of Evergreen Park and Ozinga Brothers Redi-Mix Concrete. His influence extended beyond the business world, touching countless lives with his kindness and generosity. He was a lifelong resident of Evergreen Park and an active member of the Christian Reformed Church. His legacy extends beyond the Martin and Janet Ozinga Chapel. It lives on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. The Martin and Janet Ozinga Chapel stands as a tribute to his life, a place where faith, music, and education intertwine to create something truly special.