[singlepic id=7970 w=320 h=240 float=left]The newest addition to the Brother Martin Campus, The James B. Branton Chapel, was dedicated on Saturday, November 19, 2011 with a mass celebrated by Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond CJ ’67. A reception was held afterwards in the lobby and the courtyard of the Meyer Building. In attendance were members of the Branton family, school leaders, several Brothers from around the New Orleans Province of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, alumni who serve as ordained priests and deacons, benefactors and other invited guests.
Completion of the $3.3 million chapel is the culmination of Phase II of Brother Martin’s Master Plan. Phase II raised over $14 million and resulted in the completion of E.A. Farley Field (2004) and the Roland H. and Macy Paton Meyer Science and Mathematics Building (2007). Phase I raised $6.5 million and was completed with the construction of the Thomas F. and Elaine P. Ridgley Fine Arts and Athletic Center and the renovation of the Robert Conlin Gymnasium (1999).
The chapel was designed and constructed to recognize the traditions of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart and to complement the educational philosophy of Brother Martin High School. The chapel is framed by the courtyard in front of the Meyer Building and is raised on a three foot tablet signifying its importance on campus as a place of worship. The chapel is 5,500 square feet and includes two offices and narthex space which will be used for small gatherings. The chapel has seating for 236 people.
The chapel honors the memory of James Brian Branton, a member of the Brother Martin High School Class of 1974. Jim died suddenly on April 5, 1974, and was awarded a posthumous diploma with his classmates on May 23rd of that year. Through the generous gift of the H.T. Branton family, the chapel was made possible so that future generations of Crusaders will know of Jim and better appreciate the life given to them by God. The James B. Branton Award, donated by the Class of 1974, is given each year at commencement to a graduate judged as an unheralded influence for good on the Brother Martin community. The James B. Branton Memorial Fund provides financial aid scholarships for students annually.
[nggallery id=218]
