Dogwood Chapel

The impulse to worship is not confined within the vaulted ceiling and colorful windows of a church. There are places where the bounty of God’s creation shines forth with such radiance that the humble heart is moved to express its gratitude in prayer. And in some of those natural shrines, mankind has seen fit to provide the worshipper with a modest chapel where we can satisfy our need to pray.

Dogwood Chapel portrays just such a spiritual jewel within a setting of breathtaking natural beauty. A graceful footpath leads us to the door of a modest chapel, lodged within the shade of an overarching, flowering dogwood tree. Even if we are unfamiliar with the legends that link the dogwood to the crucifixion and resurrection of our Lord, we cannot help but recognize that this tree with its lavish white blossoms is a sign of God’s sheltering grace and His abiding gift of love.

Dogwood Chapel is my expression of gratitude for the abundant beauty of God’s creation. Just as some nameless congregation was moved to erect their chapel here, I was moved to paint the scene so that I could return to it in prayer and gratitude. I hope that you will return to Dogwood Chapel in those times when you need to sooth your weary spirit.