Nestled in Millvale, Pennsylvania, the Chapel at the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities is a sanctuary of devotion and artistry. Rohn & Associates, led by liturgical designer Rolf Rohn, previously undertook a full interior restoration and renovation of this sacred space, bringing together architecture, sculpture, and painting to reflect the Franciscan mission of humble service, prayer, and contemplation.
At the heart of this transformation is the sanctuary apse mural, a breathtaking depiction of the Life of St. Francis of Assisi, designed by Rolf and painted by artist Lou Rogers. The mural traces Francis’ journey from earthly renunciation to heavenly union. Rising in sweeping bands of clouds behind the altar and arching above the Gothic half‑dome, the scenes are painted in vivid oil colors that glow in the chapel's warm light, creating an inspiring and harmonious sacred setting. Above the apse, a painted cross displays the inscription "Deus Meus et Omnia" ("My God and my All"). Alongside it are two entwined arms—the bare arm of Christ and the habit‑sleeved arm of St. Francis—a powerful Franciscan symbol of sharing in the suffering of the crucified Lord.
The mural presents key moments from Francis’ life through richly detailed Catholic imagery, highlighting the eight most celebrated scenes:
Renunciation of Wealth: Francis publicly strips away his fine clothes before his father and the bishop, embracing the Gospel call to poverty.
Receiving the Franciscan Habit: Francis formally accepts the simple brown habit, marking the beginning of the Franciscan order.
Preaching to the Birds: Kneeling among birds, Francis rejoices in God’s creation, reminding worshipers of the sanctity of all creatures.
Miracle of the Wolf of Gubbio: Francis tames the wolf, symbolizing peace, reconciliation, and harmony with nature.
Receiving the Stigmata: On Mount LaVerna, Francis bears the wounds of Christ, demonstrating humility, kindness, and imitation of Christ’s love.
Vision of Christ with Cross and Wings: At the apex, Francis faces a crucifix transformed with wings, ascending into a lapis-blue sky that signifies the gift of the Holy Spirit and his path to sainthood.
Nativity Devotion: Francis celebrates the first Christmas nativity scene in Greccio, emphasizing adoration of the Incarnation.
Preaching to People: Francis teaches and inspires communities, spreading the Gospel through words and example.
Two smaller companion murals echo the heavenly cloud motif behind the side shrines of the Sacred Heart and St. Francis, visually connecting the devotional elements to the main apse. In the antechamber, visitors are greeted by a mural of Our Lady of Perpetual Help with the Child Jesus, accompanied by contemporary, jewel-colored adoring angels. This welcoming artwork sets a prayerful tone as they enter the sacred space.
The chapel’s restored reredos, new tabernacle, marble furnishings, custom statues, stained glass, and lighting all complement the paintings, creating a holistic sacred environment that deepens worshipers' connection to Franciscan ideals.
After a lifetime of devoted ministry at the Motherhouse, the Sisters of St. Francis have moved to a new home, carrying forward their mission and the inspiration of this sacred artwork.
