| The OES visited the
Saint Joseph's Chapel on July 30, 2003. The chapel, also known as the Mother of
Sorrows Chapel, is located near the front of
the large Catholic Saint Joseph's Cemetery between Shadeville and Lockbourne.
The cemetery itself was established in 1912 and the chapel was built in the
1920s. Although the chapel looks small from the outside, it seem surprisingly
large when you walk into the sanctuary. Upon entering the chapel, it feels as if
you are instantly transported back in time. The stained glass windows are
beautiful, masonry excellent, and carpentry awesome. There is a musty scent in
the chapel along with the smell of burning candles. There's a small balcony at
the rear of the chapel as well as a confession booth and a set of restrooms. On
either side of the stage are doors that lead to somewhere, but we were unable to
open them. We believe that a priest may be buried in the floor of the chapel
since there is a name plate there. If you decide to check out the chapel, please
be respectful as it is still in use. |
| |
| Location
Information: Active Place of Worship |
| Saint Joseph's Chapel is located off US Route
23 south of Shadeville near Lockbourne, Franklin County. |
| |
| Photographs |
The Saint Joseph's Cemetery Chapel. A view of the chapel from a large hill in the cemetery. Another view from the hill where the outdoor altar is located. The walkway to the chapel is lined on either side by an iron rail. The sanctuary as seen when you go through the doors. Looking down from the balcony is impressive as well. This is the view the priest has while he gives his sermon. These wood beams come together to support the roof above the stage. Some of the remarkable stained glass in the chapel. This is the stage area where sermons are given or funerals take place. A closer look at the statue of Jesus on the cross. Another one of the beautiful stained glass windows. A statue of Joseph, Jesus' earthly father. And of Mary, Jesus' mother. A statue of Jesus and Mary together. The stained glass window in the balcony shows them together as well. The altar on the stage area and some large candles. The confession booth seems to be used as a closet now. The men's restroom wasn't very inviting. Neither was the ladies' room. An embedded cross above an entry way. The tomb of Rev. John O'Neil, who died on March 12, 1929. This is the outdoor altar area that was mentioned previously. The statue atop the large hill in the cemetery. A bird's eye view of the chapel a few years after our visit. Another aerial angle showing the front of the chapel.
The Saint Joseph's Cemetery Chapel.
|
