By Katherine Dunnagan
The Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word are seeking approximately $10 million for the restoration of the Incarnate Word Chapel. The Chapel needs to repair the shifting foundation of the building which has resulted in numerous, large cracks throughout the inside and outside of the Chapel. They expressed, “The primary issue requiring urgent attention is the shifting foundation of the Chapel due to the prolonged Texas drought and soil displacement. This has caused significant structural damage and instability, with visible cracks both inside and outside the building. To stabilize the foundation, construction covered approximately 5,000 square feet, including the installation of 168 push piles—most of which has been placed within the Chapel, with the remainder on the exterior.” Only some of the foundation correction work has begun on the Chapel, and there is still extensive work awaiting to be completed.
The Chapel’s unique architecture makes it one of the most iconic chapels of San Antonio, as well as one of the oldest. The Chapel was built in 1907 and used to be the tallest structure in San Antonio. The Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word stated, “For 118 years, the Chapel of the Incarnate Word has been more than just a landmark—it has been a sacred gathering place for prayer, celebration, and remembrance. For the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, it represents the heart of our mission and faith. For the UIW community, it serves as a symbol of tradition, offering a space for spiritual reflection and important life events.” It has stood for over a century on the bustling streets of Broadway, and now time is starting to take its toll.
If you are interested in helping the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, they have been collecting money through their Legacy Fund. They said, “The Chapel of the Incarnate Word requires extensive repairs, and while the cost is substantial, and the financial investment is significant, every donation makes a difference; which is why we turn to our beloved San Antonio community for support. Addressing these issues is not just about preserving a historic landmark—it’s about ensuring that this sacred space remains a place of worship, reflection, and community for generations to come. The generosity of our benefactors allows us to continue this essential restoration work, safeguarding the Chapel’s legacy and its role as a spiritual home for so many. We are deeply grateful for every contribution that helps us move closer to securing the future of this cherished sanctuary.” Any donation, large or small, is greatly appreciated!
Furthermore, the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word encourage UIW students to support their cause by immersing yourself in its community through attending worship and being present in the Chapel. The Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word currently hold worship in the Chapel every second Sunday of the month at 11:00 am. Additionally, they gather to pray for significant causes, and for special liturgical feasts such as Christmas, All Saints, and the liturgies of the Triduum. You can stay up to date on all things regarding the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word on social media: @ccvi_sisters. We must work together as a community to continue the efforts to restore the beloved Chapel.
