Buies Creek, N.C.-The dedication service introducing Campbell University’s Anna Gardner and Robert B. Butler Chapel held Wednesday, Oct. 14, not only showcased the chapel’s simplicity of design, but its impact as a place of worship for the entire community.
From the majestic Cornell Zimmer organ with its 1,198 pipes to the unadorned sanctuary with vaulted ceiling and trusses of carved yellow pine, the chapel is an inspiration to worship, said President Jerry M. Wallace in his opening remarks.
“This chapel will speak to students as they walk by and give testimony to the hope of God leading us in his own way to all those who enter,” Wallace said.
On hand for the dedication were representatives from the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina, the state and national organizations of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, the Harnett County Board of Commissioners and members of the Campbell family and the community.
Dr. John Roberson, vice president for Marketing and Enrollment Management, introduced those individuals whose generosity contributed to the chapel’s distinctive design-representatives from the estate of Anna Gardner and Robert B. Butler, Edward M. and Dinah E. Gore, Luby E. and Catherine W. Wood, representatives from the Titmus Foundation, representatives from the McMichael Family Foundation, L. Harold Stephens, representatives from the Donnie M. Royal Foundation, Lewis M. and Annabelle Lundy Fetterman, Robert L. and Barbara D. Whiteman and Ester H. Howard. There were 852 donors who made contributions to the chapel project, Roberson said.
“Each name represents a relationship with Campbell University. This iconic building will bring people together throughout the community and stand as a reminder that worship is essential to the purpose of this University,” Roberson said.
Located on the Academic Circle adjacent to the Taylor Hall of Religion, the 10,000 square- foot chapel seats approximately 400 people. The interior of the chapel includes a sanctuary, gathering hall, bridal suite and administrative office suite. Outside features include a bell tower with prayer room and carillon, memorial garden, meditation garden, memorial pool and memorial walk.
The University chapel will serve the needs of the entire student body as well as the educational needs of the Campbell Divinity School, Roberson said. It will be available to the Campbell community for worship, fellowship, learning, prayer and reflection.
(Photo by Bennett Scarborough)