Cypress Foundation builds Chapel

Anyone who has spent any time at a hospital – either as a patient or the loved one of a patient – knows that there is little peace and quiet. Machines are making noise, medical professionals are rushing in and out and a calm, meditative moment is practically impossible.

Nevertheless, illness is one of those times of great stress, worry and anxiety and such a place of sanctuary is very important in coping with the pressure an illness brings.

To that end, the Cypress Foundation, the fundraising arm of Clarendon Health System, is waging a campaign to build a chapel within the walls of Clarendon Memorial Hospital.

“We are excited to be able to provide this place for our patients and their loved ones,” said Louis Griffith, campaign chairman. “Many of us have recognized this need for some time and while the hospital is undergoing other expansions and renovations, we knew this was the time to move forward.”

The chapel will be located just inside the main entrance to the hospital to the left of the reception desk. The space was originally designed to be a gift shop and was later converted to office space. Currently that space is empty.

According to Griffith, Clarendon Memorial Hospital had a chapel many decades ago.

“The small pews and some stained glass windows were salvaged and stored when it was closed and we hope to re-use some of those items,” Griffith added.

Griffith estimates that the re-purposing of the space along with furnishings should cost about $60,000 and will be funded completely by the Foundation.

“The Foundation Board has elected to partner with the hospital in its quest to provide not only the best medical care, but also to meet the spiritual needs of our patients, citizens and employees,” said Cleve Dowell, immediate past chair of the Cypress Foundation board.

The chapel, being designed and constructed by GMK Associates, Inc., will include low, soothing lighting and a stained glass feature. GMK is also the firm that has designed and is building the current hospital expansion project.

Griffith anticipates the chapel’s completion within the next year.

The fundraising campaign is in full swing now, following a successful in-house campaign with the employees.

This space will be an important and exciting addition to the Clarendon Memorial Hospital campus, according to Manning United Methodist Church Pastor Paul Hutchison.

“Anyone who has regard for a sense of place and a sacred space can appreciate a hospital that carves out an area for the care of the soul in the midst of the hospital beds,” he said. “Those who believe there is something in this world undetectable by x-rays, a chapel is as important as the operating room.”

To contribute to the Cypress Foundation Chapel Fund, send your check to the Foundation at P.O. Box 550, Manning, S.C. 29102. All contributions to the Cypress Foundation Chapel Fund are fully tax-deductible.