The Catholic Chaplaincy at Queen’s University Belfast is undergoing an exciting transformation—one that goes far beyond bricks and mortar to express a vision of welcome, beauty and spiritual depth for students from across Northern Ireland and beyond.
At the heart of this renewed environment is an international collaboration with Centro Ave Arte, a Studio rooted in the Focolare Movement’s values and based in the “little city” of Loppiano, Italy. Founded in 1961, Centro Ave has spent over 60 years creating sacred works that invite an encounter with the divine. By blending painting, architecture and sculpture, they shape liturgical settings that draw people into prayer while reflecting the unique identity of the community they serve.
For the Queen’s Chaplaincy project, the Studio’s team has worked closely with Fr. Dominic McGrattan and Shannon Goodwin of the Chaplaincy, alongside the Diocese of Down and Connor, to reimagine the Chapel on Elmwood Avenue.
Among the artists contributing their gifts is Dina Figueiredo, a Portuguese painter whose work is influenced by the studio’s collaborative ethos. Alongside her colleagues, Dina brings both technical skill and prayerful attention to the task of shaping a sanctuary that resonates with students’ lives of faith and learning. Elena di Taranto, Architect and Technical Director of Centro Ave, has taken a personal, hands-on approach to the project, overseeing every detail to ensure the highest level of delivery.
The focal point of the new chapel is a striking depiction of Jesus and St. Thomas, which surrounds the exquisite tabernacle. This centrepiece, along with a statue of Our Lady and Jesus in the side chapel, is the work of Peter Kostner, a master sculptor and long-time associate of the studio.
The involvement of these artisans reflects more than just aesthetic excellence; it represents a shared vision of beauty as a bridge to the sacred. This speaks directly to the Chaplaincy’s mission: to be a place where students can find God, one another and themselves through hospitality and faith. In the words of Chiara Lubich, such spaces allow “the harmony of creation to offer a frame for the concord of hearts.”
As the project moves toward completion, we recognize this enriching partnership, which began through a providential conversation involving Irene Jovaras from Focolare Belfast. The renewed Chaplaincy is evolving into a true “home away from home”—a sanctuary of welcome and worship that will inspire students for years to come.