Today’s Pilgrim Train stopped at a village that was once a favorite local spot for sheepherders. Today it serves as a gateway to several National Parks and many outdoor activities. Duck Creek is located at the edge of Cedar Mountain in the Dixie National Forest. The town’s people collaborated their talents to build a true community church for God. In other words, they used gifts that our Lord gave them and
Duck Creek Chapel is clearly visible on the north hill of Duck Creek Village. It is accessed by taking Movie Ranch Road and past the Ace Hardware. Then turn right at the intersection and the chapel is on the left. The tall a-frame teal roof and tall steeple with a cross on top are easily seen across the meadow and even easier to admire close-up. The chapel is beautifully made with a log cabin motif. Entry to the chapel is through the double solid wooden doors and into the vestibule. A stained glass panel is just above the doors and has the word “Grace”. There are two log chairs on each side with a small table between and a beautiful cross stained glass window above. Beyond the vestibule is a stairway to the left leading up to the choir loft and another set leading down to the community room. To the right are the bathrooms. A second set of double doors ahead lead into the nave of the church where there is creel for an offertory basket. There's one grand aisle and two smaller side aisles. The pews are perfectly designed and continue the log cabin theme, there are cushions and little pillows for your back’s comfort. Side aisles light up naturally with the flow from the beautiful stained glass windows that are along the side walls. Since it is an A-frame, the ceilings are very tall and there are large beams that lead the eye up.
The wooden altar continues the log theme and is adorned with white linen, two candles, Roman Missal and a small cross. To the right of the altar table is a portable credence table that Father Rick Sherman brings with him along with all the other items he needs. Further right is the ambo and the lectionary is just on top. There is a music area just to the left of the altar area and a beautiful painting of Jesus is next to the grand piano. The back wall, behind the altar table is a gorgeous stained glass window that depicts the surrounding scenery. The divider in the stained glass is a large log cross and such a beautiful touch.
There is a true sense of community and small town hospitality at Duck Creek Chapel. We were immediately greeted by a very sweet couple, Tom and Leslie, who ensured we had a Missal, songbook and place to sit. My husband, John, was even asked to give the First Reading and Responsorial Psalm! Father Rick gave a cautionary and passionate Homily on the dangers of living in a highly competitive and predatory society yet he did so by sprinkling his homily with humor and wit.
Clearly, if you desire celebrating the Lord’s Day in a friendly community where you are surrounded by God’s natural handiwork, you must come to Duck Creek Chapel! Perhaps this area was a favorite of sheep herders because the Lord’s Pastoral presence is still felt here today in this warm chapel.