Fostering faith. Investing in hope. Enriching our community.
In 1974, recognizing the need to foster a direct connection between the Chapel and its supporters, the Friends of Duke Chapel was established.
Over the years, this dedicated group has provided essential financial support, offered good council, hosted events, and shared their diverse gifts and talents with the Chapel community. Their unwavering commitment has united individuals with varied affiliations to Duke, creating a vibrant and inclusive community. Fifty years later, the Friends of Duke Chapel continue to support and enrich the Chapel’s mission and ministry. Generous contributions enable us to host thousands of visitors every year, both in person and through technologies that share the Chapel to an international audience online. The Friends support our dynamic work in religious life on campus, and our commitment to the wider community in Durham, NC, and beyond. With the help if its many Friends, Duke Chapel embodies the historic motto of Duke University, Eruditio et Religio, standing as the loving heart of the campus and a place where faith and learning converge in our ever-evolving world.
Friends of Duke Chapel sing Amazing Grace at the 2024 Chapel National Advisory Board reunion dinner.
A LEGACY OF FAITH AND HOPE
The Friends of Duke Chapel have played a vital role in enhancing the Chapel’s life and ministry. Their contributions include:
- Enhancing Accessibility: Assisting in the construction of handicap-accessible entrances to the Chapel
- Creating Welcoming Spaces: Establishing a Chapel lounge for family members during weddings and funerals
- Supporting Worship Outreach: Expanding the reach of our Christian worship through radio broadcasts, sermon podcasts, and live and recorded online access
- Enhancing Worship Experiences: Assisting with the design and implementation of the Chapel’s sound system, high-tech audio-visual equipment including cameras, lighting, and microphones
- Enriching Musical Worship: Purchasing music, robes, hymnals, and platform risers
- Sponsoring Artistic Expression: Paying musicians and artists to perform in Chapel services and programs, and the presentation of established and emerging visual artists
Duke Chapel, like the university it serves, was founded on the true belief that faith is a cornerstone for a purposeful life. Each stone, every fragment of stained glass, and every inch of gracefully carved wood is a testament to the generous benefactors whose faith and vision have shaped this sacred space for almost 100 years.
Students enjoy a sunrise Chapel tower climb on the last day of the Spring 2024 semester.
The Duke Chapel Choir and university ensembles perform for the Our First Lady of Jazz concert.
Students, alumni, and Friends of Duke Chapel participate in the Easter Sunday processional.
Students and Chapel ministers participate in the Crop Drop service project.
BE A FRIEND of Duke Chapel
A gift of $100 is all it takes to become a Friend of Duke Chapel. Your contributions provide ongoing support for our mission, ensuring that Duke Chapel remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for the next 100 years.
THANK YOU FOR BEING A FRIEND
To show our appreciation for your ongoing support, Friends of Duke Chapel receive a copy of the Duke Chapel Annual Report, a full-color, twelve-month academic year calendar of Chapel events, and a subscription to Chapel View magazine. Throughout the year, Friends also receive invitations to special events with reserved seating. Through these offerings, we express our gratitude and keep you connected to the life of Duke Chapel.