New Chapel Designed in Three Days Becomes Haven for Silent Eucharistic Adoration

Liturgical Designer Rolf Rohn faced an immense task when he met with Most Reverend Samuel Aquila, Father Luke Meyer, and Earl Wilhelm from the Diocese of Fargo. His goal was to design the freestanding Our Lady of Guadalupe Adoration Chapel, nestled between a cathedral, rectory, and administration building. The project required Rolf to complete the design in just three days and within a budget of $1 million for the entire complex, demanding both his experience and creativity.

The contemporary Romanesque chapel was developed to stand out among the surrounding buildings, incorporating features such as parking, walkways, and a direct connection to the cathedral. Inside, the layout needed to accommodate a vestibule, restroom, balcony, stairwell to lower storage, and seating for 45 in choir-like stalls. Marble liturgical furnishings and side transepts were to display bronze images of Our Lady of Guadalupe and Saint Joseph with Child. Rolf's plan not only met but exceeded Bishop Aquila's expectations, gaining his approval on the third day.

Designing a perpetual adoration chapel differed markedly from a parish church. Rolf considered the USCCB's publication, "Thirty-One Questions on Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament," ensuring every aspect—from cruciform layout and finishes to lighting, acoustics, artwork, and furniture—fostered an environment of prayer. Quietude guided sound guidelines, and aesthetics aimed to draw worshippers into Christ's presence, calming mind and soul.

Beyond physical requirements, Rolf, Bishop Aquila, Father Luke, and Liturgical Interior Designer Kathy Maglicco integrated Roman iconography, anchoring traditions within the sacred space. Mosaics depicting the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe adorn the vaulted entrance, drawing visitors inward. In the balcony, Pelicanus feeds its young in a large carved leaded glass featuring the Sacraments. 

Above the altar, a celestial ceiling highlights the Mural of Annunciation from the Gospel of Luke. Archangel Gabriel kneels before the Virgin Mary, revealing the Son's forthcoming salvation for humanity. The artwork's sublime colors reflect God's presence, with Archangel Gabriel symbolizing the heavenly hosts and Mary embodying the Church. Luminous gold stars part a deep blue sky, symbolizing God's light in Earth's darkest corners. Raul Berzosa painted the mural under Rolf's direction.

Working closely with a local architect and contractors, Rolf and his team meticulously detailed every aspect of the chapel. Graphic Designer Maria Hubbard collaborated on custom art glass depicting the Last Supper and New Testament in subdued twilight tones. She also designed shrines to St. Joseph and the Blessed Mother, echoing foundational Church stories. Hand-carved statuary of the Holy Rood, liturgical furniture, and a patterned floor emphasizing the altar and monstrance completed this awe-inspiring new chapel construction.