Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist: Chapels

Chapels of the Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist

POCATELLO, IDAHO

The Presentation Chapel in our Center in Pocatello, Idaho, reflects back a deep sense of the desert land on which the Center was founded. The stark beauty of the area is captured in the simplicity of the chapel while its elements emphasize the importance of water, both as a necessity for life and as a sacramental. Artistic items made from machinery parts are placed not only in the chapel, but in the convent and gardens as well.

The tabernacle is made from an irrigation valve mounted on a length of irrigation pipe. The "gate" inside the valve forms the monstrance, which holds the Holy Eucharist.

The altar is a single rock topped by a circular sheet of glass and the candle holders on it are made from small well-drilling bits.

The searing dryness of the desert is made present by a stained glass rendering of the Burning Bush where Moses encountered God in the desert.

The lectern is composed of forged iron, shaped into a sword plunging into flames, recalling the Scripture verse, "The Word of God is a two-edged sword."

The other walls are decorated with the FSE cross and a copy of Rembrandt's "Prodigal Son," emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and a sculpture of the Holy Family, bringing the Center's mission to family life into awareness.