A chapel that’s also been a bowling alley? That might sound strange, but here at Our Lady Queen of Peace Chapel, it’s the truth. This beautiful chapel, nestled in the heart of St. Edward’s University in Austin, has a history as unique as its design. Built in 1897, Our Lady Queen of Peace Chapel has worn many hats over the years. It’s served as a theater, a woodworking and blacksmith shop, even a shooting range! Can you imagine the sounds of hammering and sawing echoing through this space where we stand today? In 1947, it was finally designated as a chapel. But its story didn’t end there. In 2012, a remarkable renovation began, breathing new life into the aging structure. This renovation wasn’t just about updating the building; it was about honoring its history. The chapel received a stunning new altar, tabernacle, and even a baptismal font, all crafted from trees that once stood on the St. Edward’s campus. These trees, damaged in a storm, found new life in this sacred space. This connection to the university’s past doesn’t end there. Take a look at the four small crosses that mark the blessed walls. They are made from pieces of the iconic Sorin Oak, a tree that graced the campus before falling in a lightning storm. Our Lady Queen of Peace Chapel stands today as a testament to the enduring spirit of faith and the beauty of transformation.
Longhorn Point
The shoreline whispers stories of erosion. Longhorn Point stands firm a testament to resilience. It’s a place where the Colorado