After fifty years wishing and hoping, Maine Coast Memorial Hospital now has a nondenominational chapel – a place where family, friends, patients and staff can seek solitude and quiet that many times provides the strength and faith needed during difficult times

Over one hundred people joined with the chapel benefactors Delmont and Betty Merrill on a snowy Sunday afternoon in February to dedicate this important addition to the hospital. The new Merrill Chapel is located on the top floor of a new tower that faces west over Union River and on to Blue Hill Mountain offering an unsurpassed serene view via the glass wall which runs floor to ceiling and wall to wall. The only other window in the chapel is a beautiful stained glass landscape with a dove in flight. The chapel is warmed by maple panels that run 80% up the walls set off with a muted green wall color. In the ceiling are tear drop recessed lights. Furniture, lamps, and paintings all complete the feeling that you are in a special place.

The Merrill’s joined with a committee to work out ideas for the chapel construction but in the end it was their generous gift which made the entire project possible.

The dedication ceremonies were held in the hospital’s new cafeteria. Richard Malaby, Board Chair of Maine Coast Memorial Hospital, served as host with thoughtful remarks by Mr. Merrill, Hospital President Doug Jones, Dr. Charles Alexander and a prayer of dedication by Scott Connors. All guests were treated to a well presented and even more tasteful array of hors d’Oeuvres. Groups of attendees were escorted by hospital staff in small groups to experience the chapel’s grace. The chapel will now always be available 24/7 for all who need guidance.