Crown of Thorns Chapel
Index
Chapel Overview
The school was first given the Crown of Thorns Chapel in the spring of 1959. The current Crown of Thorns Chapel was rebuilt on the site of the old chapel as a chapel that represents the Christian ideals of Obirin Gakuen. It was completed in December 2007, and the dedication ceremony was held on March 29, 2008.
The roof of the Crown of Thorns has an unusual spiral shape that gently rises towards the heavens, representing Christ's journey of suffering and the cross, and the glory of his resurrection and ascension. And beyond that lies a vision of a glorious future attained through suffering, and eternal peace.
Looking up from inside the chapel, one can see a large, circular skylight floating in the ceiling, which points to the heavenly gates leading to the eternal kingdom, filling those gathered in the Crown of Thorns Chapel with a soft, heavenly light. Along the chapel's cloister, a tranquil fountain holds water, and trees associated with the Bible are planted in the rooftop garden, creating a relaxing space open to the community.
As a chapel that embodies the school's Christian ideals, it is used for daily worship services and various school events, as well as a place for interaction both inside and outside the school through events such as pipe organ concerts and community Christmas celebrations (Obilin Christmas).
The Crown of Thorns Chapel and the school emblem
The name of the Crown of Thorns Chapel and the symbol of our school emblem, "Crown of Thorns," refer to the crown of thorns placed on Jesus Christ's head on the cross, and are considered a "symbol of suffering." Our school's motto is "Through tribulation to glory (PER PATIENTIAM AD GLORIAM)," and the school emblem (Three Nails Crown) symbolizes this motto. Based on Christian principles, our school's goal and wish is to cultivate individuals who can maintain hope and discerning international citizens who will bear the responsibility for their own future and the new era. This wish is embodied in both the school emblem and the Crown of Thorns Chapel. The entire building of the Crown of Thorns Chapel, with its high spiral roof at its center, represents the path to the cross and signifies "crown of thorns," or "through tribulation to glory."
Inside the chapel
pipe organ
The pipe organ in the Crown of Thorns Chapel is a Swiss instrument manufactured by Felsberg, featuring three keyboards and 33 stops. The maple wood used for the organ case harmonizes with the altar and chairs inside the chapel. This organ was built inspired by the ideas of Gottfried Silbermann, an organ builder who was active in Germany in the 18th century. While the first and second keyboards and pedal keyboard are based on the German Baroque style, following G. Silbermann's pipe design, the pipes of the third keyboard have a French Romantic tone. The bright and lustrous sound, a fusion of German and French sounds, supports various Christian activities held in the chapel, such as chapel hours and organ concerts.
Grand Chapel
The Great Chapel, designed as a space where people gathering for worship and Events can meet equally without distinction, has no pillars or walls dividing the space, giving the impression that everyone is enveloped in the presence of God. The ceiling design that stretches toward the sky symbolizes its role as a spiritual anchor for students and the school, symbolizing centrality and a sense of dynamism as they move forward into the future. The maximum number of seats is 600. It is open not only to current students but also to alumni and local residents.
Small chapel
In addition to worship, it is a multipurpose space for Events, classes, and circle gatherings.
Movable desks and chairs, a projector, a grand piano, and an electronic organ are also installed.
It can be used widely and freely as a place for socializing and socializing at parties, performances, and more.
Movable desks and chairs, a projector, a grand piano, and an electronic organ are also installed.
It can be used widely and freely as a place for socializing and socializing at parties, performances, and more.
prayer room
A prayer space (prayer room) for students is available on the first basement floor of the Crown of Thorns Chapel.
Please feel free to use this space when you wish to have a moment of peace and prayer. It is also used by Muslims.
For more information about using the prayer room, please contact the Christian Center.
Please feel free to use this space when you wish to have a moment of peace and prayer. It is also used by Muslims.
For more information about using the prayer room, please contact the Christian Center.
Student Lounge Bramble
This student lounge is named "Bramble," a name that evokes the image of a thorn. It's a calm and relaxing space where you can unwind in peace. There's also an upright piano, so you can enjoy playing during breaks. Come and take a break from your hectic student life!
Wedding at the Crown of Thorns Chapel
The Crown of Thorns Chapel is accepting wedding ceremonies for alumni and faculty members. Why not hold your wedding in the chapel that holds so many memories for you? For reservations and inquiries, please contact the Christian Center. Our staff will wholeheartedly help you celebrate this important milestone.
Inquiry
Christian Center
Opening hours: Weekdays 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- address
- Crown of Thorns Chapel, 1st Floor
- TEL
- 042-797-1695
- chap@obirin.ac.jp