REEDSBURG — The summer has been busy and exciting at Camp Gray, not only because of the kids but because of its expansion projects too.
Those who have visited Camp Gray will remember the beautiful and quant St. Francis of Assisi Chapel.
Built in 2005, the chapel has served well as a place of worship and prayer.
But the chapel was not without its shortcomings, such as not having “built-in” confessionals, and as Camp Director Tim Chaptman put it, “It has always been a little cramped.”
That is a “good” problem to have as Camp has been steadily increasing in its camp participants over its years of operation.
New spaces
Camp recently put in four new cabins this spring and all of them are full for the summer. All cabins have been named after a saint of the donors’ choosing.
With an increase in campers, the chapel has been short on space for prayer time and Mass, especially the camp-wide Mass celebrated every Friday during the summer.
In addition to having more space for the campers, it will also provide space for Camp Gray alumni to celebrate the Sacrament of Marriage this upcoming year.
Construction began in April as Camp broke ground for the expansion of the chapel building.
Adding onto the original building, there will be double the amount of seating, from seven pews to 14, four confessionals built, an added gathering space, and a larger sacristy.
Bachmann Construction has been working on the project for Camp and plans to complete the project by the rededication of the chapel in October, if not before then.
Dedication Mass
If you have never seen St. Francis of Assisi Chapel at Camp Gray, the perfect time would be at the rededication of the chapel on Sunday, Oct. 2, at 1 p.m.
Walk through the new oak entrance and hear the bell ring loud for the start of Mass.
Witness the new altar made from Camp Gray’s own oak trees be dedicated by Bishop Donald J. Hying of Madison.
The dedication of a new chapel and altar is a very symbolic and beautiful process, involving lots of oil and incense.
All are welcome to join for Holy Mass and the rededication ceremony. Afterward, there will be a cookout and time to have fun and celebrate the new and continuing liveliness of Camp Gray.
If you wish to support Camp Gray in its ministry, visit www.campgray.com to donate.
Molly Schoepp is an intern with the Catholic Herald.