The Holy Family Chapel on the campus of St. Joseph Village (SJV) welcomes residents who seek prayer, reflection and spiritual quiet time at any hour.
Inside the Catholic sanctuary, visitors experience distinctive works of sacred art created by Lyle Novinski, a former professor at the University of Dallas. His artistic vision shapes nearly every visual element of the Chapel from the stained-glass windows to the altar, tabernacle and Stations of the Cross.
According to Father Clifford Smith, who serves as the SJV Chapel’s priest and chaplain, Novinski designed all the artwork specifically for this sacred space. His contributions have sparked both admiration and discussion, particularly his interpretation of the 14 Stations of the Cross, which depict the journey of Jesus’ crucifixion.
“In the 70s the attitude toward religious art began to change a little bit. Lyle Novinski was selective and he didn’t just draw a simple picture, he told a story about a moment in scripture,” said Father Cliff.
Novinski’s stations are rendered as pencil drawings on wooden boards. This approach has surprised some visitors, especially those more familiar with the classic, detailed styles common in mid-20th-century churches. The modern interpretation invites reflection while gently challenging expectations of religious imagery.
Among Novinski’s most striking works are the Chapel’s stained-glass windows. The two prominent pieces that flank the alter are called Tree of Life, an image deeply rooted in Christian art and seen in stained glass traditions dating back to the medieval period.
As visitors leave the Chapel, their attention is often captured by a mural titled The Body of Christ. This expansive piece visually represents the full spectrum of human life. Beginning in the upper left corner with a fetus and progressing through scenes of youth, adolescence, adulthood to the upper right corner with a body being prayed over, reflecting death and the completion of life’s journey. Together, these stages form a powerful depiction of humanity as the collective body of Christ.
The Holy Family Chapel offers daily Catholic Mass as well as a weekly Protestant service, both of these assemblies are open to the public.
“I actually encourage everyone to attend both worship gatherings. The Protestants guide very similarly to the Catholic teachings with the opportunity for a lot of singing,” shared Father Cliff.
