Madonna della Strada

Madonna della Strada

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A recent poll by Best College Reviews named Loyola’s Madonna della Strada (MDS) one of the most beautiful campus chapels nationwide:

“The Madonna Della Strada is a modern cathedral built for the Jesuit district at the Loyola University in Chicago, Illinois. The enchanting waters of Lake Michigan wave just a few feet from the white cathedral. The Della Strada is one of several chapels. The architects built the cathedral in the Art Deco Style in 1938 and later remodeled it in 2007 to reflect a more elegant, modern style. Members of the Loyola University still use this chapel for weekly devotions, mass, and other momentous occasions. It may also be rented for weddings.”

Thanks to Father Mertz’s efforts, we have this beautiful chapel today.  He was responsible for fundraising and establishing Madonna della Strada, or “lady of the way” in Italian.  Most interpret this title as an homage to the Blessed Virgin Mary, who leads all Catholics with her example of love and faith.  Before the chapel was built, however, Chicago planned to extend Lake Shore Drive on the grounds where Fr. Mertz wanted the chapel.  Fortunately, the road plans were abandoned, and Fr. Mertz was able to carry on with building his vision in place of the extension of Lake Shore Drive’s way.

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Madonna della Strada exhibits not only physical beauty but also beauty in its mission lived out by the students, faculty, and organizations which work in the chapel.   The ministry department at Loyola works closely with the chapel and hosts retreats, volunteer opportunities, and activities for students interested in liturgical ministry.  I’ve been lucky enough to participate with music ministry at MDS for the past year and a half.  For Sunday masses at 10:30 AM I play violin along with musical director Steve Betancourt, clarinet Sarah F., and the liturgical choir.  Through this experience with MDS I’ve learned how so many factors feed into each mass, wedding, and celebration to make it unique and special.

Loyola is lucky to have such a beautiful chapel like Madonna della Strada.  The chapel holds daily masses and can be reserved for weddings.

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