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School Worship at an Episcopal School

October 8th, 2025


Generations of Episcopal School of Baton Rouge students have experienced the peace and calm of the Lewis Family Memorial Chapel of the Good Shepherd. This sacred space is the heart of our school community, hosting weekly worship services, significant school celebrations, alumni weddings and much more. As the National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES) suggests, Episcopal school chapels are “a place of celebration at times of joy, a place for reflection and dialogue in times of difficulty, and the first place we turn in times of grief and crisis.”

NAES describes school worship as something that is creative, inclusive, draws fully upon the liturgical resources of The Episcopal Church, and is a regular part of school life for all faculty and students.

“Community worship plays a unique role in binding students of different ages together and building community across the age span of the school. Parents, parishioners, alumni, and other members of the wider community of the school are graciously welcomed.

Episcopal school worship is closely attuned to the social, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual needs of the students in attendance. Chaplains, clergy, and lay leaders create an intentional chapel program that moves students forward in their spiritual development as they progress through the school. They work together to ensure appropriate use of music, prayer, and scripture.” – NAES Principles of Good Practice for Chapel and Worship in Episcopal Schools

At Episcopal School of Baton Rouge, students have a voice in school worship. Student Vestry members lead Chapel services, plan themes, select speakers and even serve as speakers before their classmates. A Student Vestry makes the Chapel experience more accessible to the many diverse students that embody our student community. Spiritual development is a cornerstone of the Episcopal educational experience, and allowing students to have a key role in their own development provides them with a sense of ownership and empowerment that encourages overall growth.

According to NAES, gathering for chapel is fundamental to what it means to be a student or faculty member at an Episcopal school.

“Chapel is a reliable and predictable part of school life, and time designated for chapel is honored in the school schedule. The Prayer Book tradition focuses on liturgy as the work of the full assembly. Therefore, all students and faculty members attend chapel. Episcopal schools ensure that chapel is a place of genuine hospitality that supports the spiritual growth of all, regardless of faith tradition, even as it explicates the school’s Episcopal roots and heritage.” – NAES Principles of Good Practice for Chapel and Worship in Episcopal Schools

Join Us

Creative, inclusive and based on the liturgical resources of The Episcopal Church, school worship is an opportunity for students, faculty and staff to unite and build community. Families are encouraged to join us in worship in the Lewis Family Memorial Chapel of the Good Shepherd. Contact your child's teacher or division for dates and times.

The Episcopal School of Baton Rouge 2025-2026 application is now available! ​For more information on the application process, to schedule a tour, or learn more about the private school, contact us at [email protected] or 225-755-2685.

Posted in the categories All, Admission, Spirituality And Service.