The mural shows the birth of the Savior and institution of the Eucharist, the Crucified Christ and two figures on the right which are supposedly Mary and John.
Originally the altar was on the west side where the stage is now and pews faced the altar in even rows facing west like you might still see in older churches..
Most parishioners went to Mass in the Chapel with only one Mass in the church during the end of its use for liturgies.
After Vatican II, the “church in the round” was in vogue. During the first years of the pastorate of the late Fr. Thomas Koegel (1973-1989), the pastor had the platform built on the north side of the chapel and moved the altar there. There were then rows of pews facing north and others facing west and east.
There still may be some photos of First Communion classes with the mural in the background.
The mural probably was painted by Sister Carol Joy who also did the pattern drawing for the metal art work of the Conversion of St. Paul which is on the wall in the northeast corner (rear) of the church.
Removal of the old altar platform makes it possible to provide even level seating for programs staged in the chapel. The renovation is to include a kitchen, new flooring and an enlarged stage.
If you have old photos or have any knowledge of the dates the altar area was changed, please send email to hliggett@sbcglobal.net
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