July 15, 2026

Physician philanthropy creates new hospital chapel

Interior of the chapel at California Hospital Medical Center

California Hospital Medical Center recently celebrated the dedication of its newly renovated chapel, made possible through a generous gift from California Primary Physicians Medical Group’s (CPP) and its founding physicians: Drs. Marshall Bernes, Robert Blackman, Austin Fite, Richard Hart, Michael Jepsen, Jeff Litow and Robert Margolis. The space serves as a welcoming sanctuary for patients, families, staff and visitors seeking reflection, prayer and comfort.

The dedication ceremony brought together hospital leaders, physicians, chaplains, community clergy and supporters to honor a project rooted in compassion and whole-person care. Designed to be inclusive of all faith traditions and those who seek a quiet place for reflection, the chapel underscores the important role spiritual well-being plays in the healing journey.

“It's our hope that this chapel will serve as a constant reminder of our shared humanity, our commitment to healing, and our enduring mission to foster a healthier future for all,” said Samuel Scriven, Director of Mission Integration at CHMC. “May all who come here find peace, strength and a renewed sense of purpose.”

Clergy standing inside the newly dedicated chapel A highlight of the event was a series of blessings offered by representatives of the Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim and Catholic faith traditions. Their prayers for healing, peace, wisdom and compassion reflected the inclusive nature of the chapel and the diverse community it serves.

“Sometimes philanthropy can feel like an abstract concept,” said Eileen Conn, CHMC Foundation Board Chair. “This chapel shows it’s a real-life impact — an idea that matches a need.” Her remarks reflected the spirit of the project: donors coming together to create a meaningful resource that will support the hospital community for years to come.

The project was strengthened by the involvement of physician spouses and families, whose support helped bring the vision to life. Intricate Tibetan tapestries donated by Dr. Bernes and his wife, Rina Tham, along with thoughtfully selected furnishings and design elements, create a warm and serene atmosphere. “California Hospital Medical Center is fundamentally about people caring for people and ensuring that every individual is met with kindness, compassion and dignity,” noted Chief Philanthropy Officer Susan Shum.

CPP founding members and their spouses inside the newly dedicated chapel During the ceremony, several CPP founding physicians reflected on the group's more than 50-year legacy of innovation, service, and commitment to improving community health. Their gift of the chapel continues that legacy by supporting the emotional and spiritual needs of those who enter the hospital's doors.

The Chapel at California Hospital Medical Center, located on the ground level of Leavey Hall across from the J. Thomas McCarthy Center for Emergency Services, is open daily from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Captions
Picture 1: Interior of the chapel at California Hospital Medical Center
Picture 2 : Clergy standing inside the newly dedicated chapel
Picture 3 : CPP founding members and their spouses inside the newly dedicated chapel