When the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word (CCVI) invited liturgical designer Rolf Rohn to work on the Chapel of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, it was more than a renovation—it was a collaboration rooted in faith and purpose. Working closely with Sister Walter Maher, Vice President for Mission and Ministry at the University of the Incarnate Word, Rolf ensured that all design choices faithfully embodied the congregation’s commitment to healing, service, and the promotion of human dignity through the love of Jesus, the Incarnate Word. Rohn Design led fundraising efforts as part of the complete interior and exterior renovation and restoration program.
Transforming the Chapel
The project included restoration of original artwork; redesign of functional spaces such as the vesting area, sacristy, and storage; and the introduction of a new Reserved Eucharist Chapel to enhance Eucharistic devotion. Every element was considered for its spiritual and practical significance, ensuring the space supported the celebration of the Mass and devotional life. Visitors today encounter a chapel of serene beauty. Soft blues and creams, accented with gold, create a contemplative atmosphere, while angels and sacred motifs adorn the walls, guiding the eye and spirit toward prayer.
Sacred Art and Symbolism
Above the altar, the radiant JHS Christogram—symbolizing Iesus Hominum Salvator (“Jesus, Savior of Humanity”)—crowns the sanctuary, reminding worshippers of Christ’s saving presence. A highlight of the chapel’s interior is the intricately carved crucifix and low-relief sanctuary panels by the late master woodcarver Edmund Rabanser. These carvings depict the congregation’s history and the Sisters’ mission to make Christ’s restorative love visible in the world. A custom altar, tabernacle and tabernacle throne, baptismal font, and ambo were carefully designed to harmonize with the chapel’s serene color palette, while new and restored art glass bring both color and storytelling to the environment.
Lighting and Atmosphere
Lighting was an integral part of the design. Custom liturgical lighting and control systems were developed to highlight key liturgical elements and nurture a prayerful, meditative church interior, guiding the flow and actions of the liturgy. These systems accentuate the depth of the color scheme, the glow of the gilded details, and the sculptural nuances of the carved panels, fostering an environment conducive to contemplation, worship, and a profound sense of the sacred.
Mission in Every Detail
All flooring throughout the space is Carrara marble, in cream and red, complementing the surrounding environment and reflecting the Sisters’ message of love. At the chapel entrance, the words Amor Meus (“My Love”) greet visitors, honoring the Sisters’ dedication to bringing Christ’s healing presence into the world. From the preserved tympanum to the restored presider’s and deacon’s chairs, all features and liturgical furnishings were chosen to enrich prayer, spiritual engagement, and participation in the liturgy.
The chapel now stands as a place of quiet reverence and devotion, where every detail conveys the Sisters’ commitment to making Christ’s redemptive love tangible. This project demonstrates how a skilled liturgical designer can transform a worship space into a true encounter with the Incarnate Word.
You can view the full project here.
