The Village Chapel is a place of worship. It stands as a visible expression of faith in God for Island residents, their guests and visitors. Its services and ministries are based on Judeo-Christian traditions. A volunteer Board of Trustees and its committees provide the guidance and direction for the fulfillment of the Chapel’s mission.
Early History: The first worship service on the Island was held on Easter Sunday, 1984. It was organized by property owners and took place in the now extinct Bald Head Island Inn. In 1985 the George and Cynthia Mitchell Family donated the land for the construction of the Chapel. An Easter Sunday groundbreaking was held in 1986, and on Easter Sunday, 1987, the Chapel was dedicated.
Texas architect Clovis Heimsath designed the building in keeping with the nineteenth-century Carolina coastal architectural style. The layout is a traditional cruciform floor plan, with seating for 130 persons. The stained glass windows were designed by Heimsath’s wife Marianne. The window at the rear symbolizes the Trinity through the three fish in an equilateral triangle, suggesting three parts in one. The other window, over the organ, is based on the Bernini window in Rome. A single dove is surrounded by twelve rays, symbolizing each of the twelve Apostles.
Construction funds were raised entirely through property-owner donations. Brass medallions along the altar rail are inscribed with the names of these early donors. The windows behind the altar overlook Bald Head Creek, Middle Island and, in the distance, Bluff Island.
Worship Services: Services are held each Sunday at 8:30 a.m., with an additional 10:00 a.m. service during the summer months. Communion is distributed the first Sunday of each month.
Visiting ministers from various Judeo-Christian denominations lead Chapel services. Each has been recommended by an Island property owner. Baptisms, weddings, vow renewals, memorials and other special services are scheduled through the Chapel Office. The Board of Trustees sets the guidelines, policies and procedures to maintain the integrity of the Chapel. As a member of the Southport/Oak Island Inter-Church Fellowship, the Village Chapel is an active participant in community outreach.
You are invited to worship with the community or to experience on your own the peace and love emanating from this special place.
Welcome!
