Four public tours on schedule; private group tours also available

Enjoy an intimate look at the Dominican Sisters' magnificent mid-century modern chapel.

Springfield, Ill.—Visitors will have four opportunities to tour the renowned art and architecture of Sacred Heart Convent Chapel in 2025.

The convent chapel, completed in 1968, is one of Springfield’s’ most significant examples of mid-century modern architecture, art, and design.

The 2025 schedule includes four free public events. The first tour is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Sunday, January 12, 2025.

During a 2022 presentation on the architectural and historical significance of Sacred Heart Convent, Anthony Rubano, Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer for the State of Illinois, called the chapel “a spiritual anchor with amazing presence and power.”

A local architectural firm, Hadley and Worthington, received the commission for the entire Sacred Heart Convent complex. The chapel’s 40-foot vaulted basilica-like frame provides the setting for 4,000 square feet of faceted slab glass designed by French glass artist Gabriel Loire. The mosaics, reminiscent of Byzantine iconography, were commissioned by Deprato Rigali Studios in Chicago and crafted by Italian guild artists from Venetian glass.

" A spiritual anchor with amazing presence and power.” —Anthony Rubano, Deputy State Historic Preservation

“Our sisters pray in this beautiful space every day," said Sister Beth Murphy, who often guides the tours. "It's a joy to be able to share it with guests."

Tours are free to guests; registration is required.

The Dominican Sisters of Springfield were founded in Jacksonville, Ill., in 1873 and relocated to Springfield in 1893. The dedication ceremony for the new chapel took place on October 7, 1968, the Feast of the Holy Rosary.

Here is more information about how you can join the mission of the Dominican Sisters of Springfield.