Oct. 12, 2008

I have discovered this space to be a very appropriate memorial to Carl Lee in innumerable ways.

1.    I find it appropriate because of its contemporary design and shape and furnishings

•    Carl, given his creative spirit and his ability to read his audience—had a capacity for the innovative in word and worship
•    Let me be clear—for Carl contemporary traditional did not mean without form or substance or theological integrity
•    But, like Luther the reformer, Carl understood the necessity to respond to the needs of the people, to make the Gospel relevant to emerging generations of disciples
•    And so, may this chapel be a space that responds to the needs of God’s people

2.    And I think this is a fitting memorial because of the elements of wood and water which constitute this space

•    This Badger, (or was it Ross), farm boy grew up with lots of wood and water.
•    It was, I am sure, sometimes boon and sometimes bane
•    Carl and Ann’s preferences for wood and water were reflected in the great and good years they spent at their Bad Medicine Lake cabin—a place of renewal and inspiration for them
•    For Carl wood and water were always life giving
•    The wood conveys the beauty and warmth and strength of those famous Cedars of  Lebanon
•    The water represents cleansing, refreshment and the continuing movement of God in the world and in each life.
•    And so, may the wood and water of this chapel be a blessing to all

3.    I appreciate the simplicity and informality of this Chapel’s design.

•    Carl’s ministry was rooted in hospitality—he had a unique capacity to help people relax and open themselves to the grace of God
•    I find that the design and character of this space and these splendid furnishings communicate welcome and hospitality
•    May this space be a place where God’s spirit dwells in all of its generosity and wonder

4.    Similarly, I appreciate the intimacy of this space—the opaque windows, the indirect light, the shape, the  seating -

•    this is not a place for a crowd, it’s a space for the one or the few, a place that facilitates communication and contemplation
•    it’s a space that reflects the intimacy that Carl valued for himself and gifted to so many others
•    God grant that this chapel may be a place of deep spiritual intimacy

5.    And I appreciate the centering symbols of this chapel, the cross and the Bible—the Word of God

•    Carl’s ministry was centered on word and sacrament
•    And at the very heart of his ministry was the gospel—always the gospel
•    Carl was rooted and grounded in the gospel.  Carl preached for us the gospel of “yes,” the gospel of unconditional and overflowing acceptance, the gospel of affirmation, the gospel of calling—always rooted and grounded in love.

6.    In similar spirit, may this chapel enable and inspire generations to come to be so rooted and grounded…and to worship as they live.

Soli Deo Gloria

Information For:

current students
faculty and staff		 parents
alumni		 high school students
admitted students