This Easter, the St. Veronica sanctuary matched the bright flowers and pastel-clad congregants of the Chantilly church. Recent renovations transformed the church’s yellow brick back wall into an inviting coral and sky blue separated by white arches. Newly stenciled in gold below the original stained glass windows are the words from St. Alphonsus Maria de' Liguori’s Stations of the Cross: “Consider how Veronica saw Him so afflicted and attended and wiped His most holy face.”

When St. Veronica was built in 2004, the worship space was intended to become the vestibule. After a few years, the parish decided instead that the space would be the permanent church. In light of the change, they renovated the interior to look more like a traditional sanctuary.

In the past few weeks, the carpet was replaced with faux wood and tile. New pews were added and the historic pews, where Mother Teresa is said to have once knelt, were refurbished. In a few weeks, a new altar, ambo, baptismal font and other liturgical furnishings will arrive. They hope to add murals to the walls and new lighting, funds permitting.

“There was nothing wrong (with the space) before, but it was temporary,” said Father Dennis W. Kleinman, pastor.  “It’s even better now —  more reverent, more conducive for worship. It lifts your mind and eyes and heart to the glory of God.”