Beebe dedicates new interfaith chapel at medical center in Lewes
Lewes and Rehoboth Beach religious leaders recently joined the board members of Beebe Medical Center, the Beebe Medical Foundation and the Beebe Medical Center Auxiliary, as well as physicians and staff, at the dedication ceremony for the new interfaith chapel in the hospital.
The joyous yet solemn occasion marked the opening of the chapel, available to all who visit Beebe Medical Center, and the culmination of two years of planning and interior renovations. The chapel is on the first floor of the hospital in the main elevator-bay lobby.
Michael Clemmer, president of the Beebe Medical Center Auxiliary, welcomed the guests and introduced the designer of the project, Patricia Damiri of Mitchell Design. In 2011, The Beebe Medical Center Auxiliary donated $305,000 for the construction of the new and larger chapel in honor of the auxiliary’s 75th anniversary. At the time, the funds represented the largest single donation the auxiliary had ever made to Beebe Medical Center.
During the ceremony, Beebe Medical Center Chaplain Keith Goheen described the chapel to those attending the ceremony as a quiet, restful space for personal reflection and spiritual devotion, and a reverent place where all hearts and prayers are welcome.
Participants representing area religious groups included the Rev. Fred Duncan from Bethel United Methodist Church, Nick Edge from Insight Meditation Community in Lewes, Deacon Bill McGann from St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church in Lewes and Anita Smulyan from Seaside Jewish Community in Rehoboth Beach.
Speaking on behalf of Beebe Medical Center were Jeffrey Fried, president and CEO, and the Hon. William Swain Lee, chairman of the Beebe Medical Center Board of Directors. Lee reminded those attending how important it is to have a quiet, spiritual place for those who need one within the walls of a hospital.
The theme of the chapel is one of nature, with depictions of forest, water and sky. Stone bricks cover some walls to create a sense of earth. Religious items for reflection and devotion are available for individual use.
“In this quiet haven for the spirit, may the tearful feel comforted, the harried find composure and the weary be comforted with rest,” Goheen said. “In this vibrant garden of the soul, may the joyful savor serenity, the thoughtful breathe in clarity, and the seeker be touched by peace. May our fears turn into trust, may our trust find affirmation, and may our affirmations inspire us to care for one another as you care for us.”
