Located on the second floor of the Yawkey Center for Cancer Care, the chapel is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Some see the screen as a metaphor for spiritual care at Dana-Farber: a prism that serves people of many different faiths, a symbol of peace and hope.
This quiet sanctuary is the culmination of the efforts of many individuals - patients and supporters who, over the course of several years, dreamed of and worked for the creation of a chapel. In spirit, it is the special legacy of a patient named Jeffrey R. Forbes.
During his 13-year battle with cancer, Forbes offered himself as a spiritual counselor to many fellow Dana-Farber patients and their families. His dream of a chapel inspired the support of the Friends of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and of his family, friends, and colleagues.
At the centerpiece of the chapel is the stained-glass screen, which depicts the elements of water, air, fire, and life. The stained glass was designed by Robert Frei of Emil Frei, Inc., St. Louis, Missouri. Cherry-wood cabinets and upholstered chairs contribute to the room's warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The chapel is always open as a place of quiet reflection, prayer, or meditation for patients, their families, and medical staff. Prayer requests for a patient or loved one may be left in the chapel's prayer box.
Prayer rugs, shawls, and meditation cushions are also available, and we occasionally hold meditation, interfaith prayer, and faith-specific services in the chapel. The dates and times of these services may be found on the bulletin board directly across from the chapel entrance. Everyone is welcome to participate.
