Today is the Feast of the North American Martyrs. Seventy years after its dedication, the Chapel of the North American Martyrs deserves a renewal that fulfills its capacity for beauty.

On their journey to become the men they were made to be—men who pursue God’s greater glory above all things—Blue Jays begin and end their education at Jesuit in the Chapel of the North American Martyrs.

In light of Jesuit’s mission, our responsibility to this sacred space goes beyond maintaining its historic character. We owe it to future generations of Blue Jays to beautify and elevate it—to orient the gaze of each student towards Heaven as we continue the work of forming men of faith and men for others.

Today, on this auspicious Feast of The North American Martyrs, we are thrilled to announce the renovation and renewal of the chapel that bears their name. Renovations will include the items below.

• Commissioning of striking paintings of the eight North American Martyrs (work in progress pictured to the right)
• Replacement of acoustic tiles with acoustical plaster on the ceiling featuring a beautiful painting of the night sky at the time of the first Easter
• Construction of a bridal suite to enhance the chapel for alumni, who frequently use the chapel for sacraments including Baptism and Matrimony
• Addition of an elevator (large enough to accommodate a casket) that will serve as an accessible new entrance for faculty, staff, students, and visitors
• Installation of state-of-the-art sound, lighting, and electrical systems
• Upgrades to the narthex and lobby areas featuring a new restroom
• Repair of walls and plaster after decades of moisture and cracking on wall finishes
• Restoration of pews and addition of kneelers
• Updates to the Mary and Joseph side altars
• More renovations, additions, and updates to come in future phases

Sadly the North American martyrs themselves have never been portrayed inside of the chapel. Local artist Jaclyn Warren has been commissioned to produce life-sized paintings of the North American Martyrs that will permanently hang in the renovated chapel. The martyrs are depicted concelebrating Mass.

With the help of our supporters, the North American martyrs will continue to be Guides to Heaven’s Spheres for generations of Blue Jays to come.

The renovation will feature the addition of an elevator (large enough to accommodate a casket) that will serve as an accessible new entrance for faculty, staff, students, and visitors.

For questions or for more information on this special initiative, please contact Jamie Roy at roy@jesuitnola.org or (504) 483-3923.