The Chapel: A Historic Treasure at Visitation Academy

The Chapel at Visitation Academy has stood as a symbol of faith and community since its construction in 1852, overseen by Sister Mary Anastasia Combs, the superioress of the Visitation Sisters in Frederick. Over its 175-year history, this sacred space served primarily as a place of worship for students and the religious community, hosting countless Catholic masses, ceremonies, and events.

A Timeless Design

The chapel’s architectural integrity has been preserved to honor its history. Its marble centerpiece, originally an altar, remains intact, and the carved marble column that once held the tabernacle stands as a reminder of its religious roots. While the tabernacle itself was donated to the Archdiocese of Baltimore, other original features remain, including the striking oil painting above the altar, The Presentation in the Temple. Created by an Italian artist, it depicts the child Jesus being presented to St. Simeon.

Natural light enhances the chapel’s beauty, filtering through two original stained glass windows by Franz Mayer & Co. of Munich. These windows depict St. Francis de Sales and St. Jane de Chantal, the founders of the Visitation Order. The original choir loft at the back of the chapel, complete with a reed organ used until 2016, also remains intact.

Changes Over Time

The chapel’s interior evolved with the times. In 1924, Mother Mary Fidelis oversaw renovations that included the addition of marble statues of Mary and Joseph, two marble side altars, an altar rail, and gold doors with inset diamonds. Frescoes painted on the walls and ceilings during the original construction were removed during this renovation.

The chapel also reflected changes within the Church after Vatican II. A nave reserved for the cloistered Visitation Sisters was originally hidden by an iron grill covered in fabric. This was replaced with an open wooden frame, symbolizing greater connection between the sisters and the congregation.

A Space for Life’s Milestones

Beyond weekly mass, the chapel played a central role in many important life events. Weddings of former Visitation Academy students were celebrated here, as were funerals for many of the sisters buried in the on-site cemetery. One notable service was the 2001 wake for Rev. Patrick Magnier, a beloved chaplain for the school who served for nearly 27 years.

The Chapel’s Next Chapter

The Visitation Sisters departed in 2006, and the school closed in 2016. The once-vacant chapel, now deconsecrated by the Archdiocese of Baltimore, remains a cherished landmark, preserving its historical and architectural significance while transitioning to a new, secular role.

Today, the chapel stands as a testament to the legacy of Visitation Academy, offering a glimpse into its storied past and enduring spirit.