Special to the Herald
(From the issue of 10/14/04)

FRONT ROYAL — Christendom College began a new era in its 27-year history with the opening of its new 40,000-sq.-ft. St. John the Evangelist Library last Saturday.

A piece of classical Virginia architecture designed by O’Brien and Keane LLC to hold 150,000 volumes, the new St. John the Evangelist library will now serve as the academic center of the campus, and the embodiment of the College’s commitment to Catholic education.

Because the lower level of the new library houses four new classrooms of the library, it has been in use since the beginning of the semester, but the upper two levels of the library have been closed to the students while construction was completed.

"The students of Christendom College deserve this library," said Tom McFadden, director of admissions. "Since our founding in 1977, students have been attending Christendom for the unique educational experience that we offer, and not for the buildings. And although that will probably never change, it is nice to be able to offer them this state-of-the-art and aesthetically pleasing library."

Archbishop Edwin F. O’Brien of the Archdiocese for the Military Services formally blessed and dedicated the library before a crowd of over 400 friends, alumni and benefactors. Prior to the blessing, he celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving in the Chapel of Christ the King.

Donna F. Bethell, Christendom’s chairman of the board of directors, officially opened the library by cutting the ribbon in front of the main door. Attendees were then able to tour the library.

At the formal program, Board Chairman Bethell read a congratulatory letter from President George W. Bush where he said that the library "reflects [Christendom’s] commitment to higher education and [the Catholic] faith," and he commended the faculty and administration for helping form the minds of future Americans.

The evening concluded with the performance of an original orchestra piece, composed and directed by Christendom's own Dr. Kurt Poterack, and a fireworks display.