Bulldog News

Chapel dedication begins new school year

Friday, September 18, 2009

Hillside School launched its new 2009-2010 academic year on Sunday, September 13 with the dedication of the new Chase Chapel, named in honor of Hillside School Board of Trustee President Edward Chase and his family.

The dedication was the highlight of Registration Day, the annual event which marks the start of Hillside’s new school year. Other activities during the day included a family cookout, student occupancy of residence halls, a parent orientation and field games.

In addition to members of the Hillside community, the chapel ceremony also featured several dignitaries. Among the guests were Trisha Pope, councilor-at-large for the City of Marlborough; and Peter Juaire, Ward 4 Councilor for the City of Marlborough.

The dedication began with Hillside School Chaplain Abby Pettee recalling how the chapel once served as home to the school’s wrestling team.

“Now, we have a wonderful chapel where those who walk through its doors will be able to experience a clarity of vision, grace and serenity,” she noted.

Speaking on behalf of Hillside School’s Board of Trustees, board member John Doran praised the Chase family for their philanthropy and called the chapel a “truly ecumenical edifice that symbolizes Hillside’s commitment to its values of compassion, determination, honesty, respect and fun.”

Similar praise was offered by Hillside School Headmaster David Z. Beecher. “Both Ed and Rosemary Chase and their family are people of deep, spiritual faith who have provided Hillside with the gift of support and enduring faith in our educational mission.”

Among other speakers was Ovie Ojeni ’10 who, speaking for Hillside’s students, thanked the Chase family for “creating a place where we can slow down and reflect on the many blessings in our lives.”

In response to such accolades, Ed Chase expressed optimism that the chapel will benefit Hillside students. “We hope this chapel will help students to harness the power of their own faith so they may be able to face whatever challenges take place in their lives.”

Following the ceremony, guests toured the new chapel which, reflecting Hillside’s diverse student population, pays tribute to many world religions through informational posters and religious symbols.

The chapel’s multi-faith perspective was perhaps best expressed by Rev. John Taylor, minister of the First United Methodist Church of Westboro, MA, in his dedication prayer. “May people of all faiths- students and faculty from around the world- find a home in these walls- where they can focus on high ideals and values - and upon the richness of God’s grace,” stated Rev. Taylor. “Today, we celebrate the opening of Chase Chapel.”

Alex Brown '13 (left) and his father, Peter Brown, view a decorative quilt depicting world religions within Hillside's new Chase Chapel during the September 13 dedication.

At the Chase Chapel dedication (left to right): Derek Chase, son of Edward and Rosemary Chase; Hillside School Headmaster David Z. Beecher; Frank Perrine, former headmaster of Fessenden School; Laura Perrine; and Hillside Board President Ed Chase.

Visitors enjoy the serenity of Chase Chapel in the closing moments of the September 13 dedication.