Mount Olivet History
Chapel Restoration
Over the years renovation projects had changed the original character of the chapel. Rev. Keith H. Friese (pastor from 1978-1995) and congregation members concerned with preserving the building began efforts to restore the chapel. They were greatly aided in this effort by generous contributions in 1990 and 2000 from the Onan Family Foundation, which funded the restoration in memory of Geraldine Onan Smith and her husband Sherman Sidney Smith. Many volunteers contributed their time, talents and labor to restoring the chapel to its original beauty. They received professional assistance from Romanian artist Dan Ternivano, who repainted the angels on either side of the altar, and artist Byron Roesselet, who created the canvas mural behind the altar and added gold leaf to portions of the walls and ceiling. The German script from I Corinthians Chapter 13 frames the sanctuary. The restoration included stabilizing the structure, updating the mechanical systems, refurbishing an antique reed organ similar to the original organ, and reinstalling pews. The restored chapel was dedicated on October 6, 1991. Occasional worship services, church functions and weddings are conducted in the chapel's serene and inspiring
interior. Maintenance of the chapel is an ongoing project carried out by members of the Chapel Committee.
