Interfaith Chapel Renovations Begin Thanks to Donor Support

Thanks in large part to donor support, renovations will begin on the Interfaith Chapel at Baystate Medical Center to create a more inclusive facility on campus. This is the first major renovation of the Chapel space since it opened its doors more than 30 years ago.

Propelling this project forward is a $50,000 Love Takes Action Award from New York Life Foundation, which Rev. Ute Schmidt, manager of Spiritual Services, received in 2021. Former Baystate Health Foundation Board of Trustee Member and New York Life Agent Jean Deliso, CFP, nominated Rev. Schmidt for her dedication to the community and the compassionate care she showed patients and families during COVID-19. Baystate Health Foundation was able to add donor funding in addition to the grant, to make this project a reality.

“As I remember, I was so impressed by Ute’s dedication to service for Baystate, its patients and its families at a time when the world had been turned upside down,” shared Jean. “The courage and dedication she showed to help others was exemplary. I was not surprised when she had a choice of where the money could be utilized, she returned it to Baystate to benefit her constituents. She is a person who leaves things better than when she arrived.”

After receiving the Love Takes Action Award, Rev. Schmidt and the Spiritual Services team knew they wanted to pay it forward and utilize the funds to help support the community.

“The Chapel is used for so many things, including interfaith services, Catholic Mass, private contemplation, meditation, and a place for our Muslim patients, families, and team members to pray daily,” shared Rev. Schmidt. “It made sense for us to use the funds to update the space and create a layout that feels inclusive and welcoming to all.”

Renovations will include brightening the space, new furniture, and new audio-visual features through which visitors can enjoy meditative videos and services. The Chapel is also used for holidays, weddings, baptisms, and as a gathering space, which will be considered in the renovation plans.

“The Interfaith Chapel will be a beautiful expression of peaceful coexistence and tolerance. We are embracing these values and making space for them, and the Chapel is that space at Baystate Medical Center,” said Rev. Schmidt.

The new Interfaith Chapel will open in spring 2025. For those who are seeking areas to pray, contemplate, or meditate in the meantime, please reach out to Rev. Schmidt at Ute.Schmidt@BaystateHealth.org.