The greatest achievements in human history are often the result of ‘cathedral thinking,’ the practice of creating long-term visions and laying foundations for endeavors whose completion and full impact may extend far beyond one’s lifetime, benefiting generations to come. This philosophy has guided the vision behind the Bower Chapel at Moorings Park Communities in Naples, Florida. For 25 years, this timeless, nondenominational sanctuary has been a place of music, reflection, and connection; a cherished space at the heart of Naples’ most exclusive Life Plan Community, where luxury retirement living meets wellness, spirituality, and legacy.
“Cathedral thinking is the embodiment of visionary leadership and enduring purpose,” said Moorings Park Communities’ Executive Director of Successful Aging, Jessica Brinkert. “At Moorings Park Communities, it’s a mindset of legacy, compassion, and stewardship, where every decision is made with deep care for the future of aging well.”
In honor of the 25th anniversary and rededication of the Bower Chapel, a month-long tribute of concerts, lectures, and services was held to celebrate the impact of the “soul of Moorings Park,” and commemorate those whose cathedral thinking helped shape its history and legacy.
The Bower Chapel was brought to life by four remarkable individuals whose ability to envision the future of Moorings Park shaped the very way residents live today: former resident Edwin Bower, whose generosity gave the chapel its name; former residents Alan and Marilyn Korest, whose leadership and devotion shaped its legacy; and former CEO Guenther Gosch, whose guidance ensured it would endure. Together, they imagined a timeless gathering place that every Moorings Park Communities’ resident could take sanctuary in. A freestanding chapel where music and meaning could echo across generations, and where spirituality could weave through daily life at Moorings Park.
“They wanted to enhance the self-worth, meaningful relationships, and wholeness of residents here at Moorings Park,” said Dolly Bodick Korest, the current family member on the Bower Chapel Advisory Committee and the Resident Council President of Moorings Park. “It has become what Alan called, ‘a spiritual treasure of lasting value that should endure for centuries,’ and one of the many examples of what he referred to as cathedral thinking. This is the legacy of the Bower Chapel.”
The chapel was built around a one-of-a-kind organ; a creation of international importance and a lasting embodiment of cathedral thinking. Designed by acclaimed Baroque specialist, recitalist, and former Moorings Park resident Fenner Douglas, the handcrafted and mechanically operated organ has a total of 1,872 pipes, which range from the size of a pencil to sixteen feet tall, and produces a rich, harmonious sound within the near-perfect acoustics of the chapel.
“The Bower Chapel has been called a musical instrument in its entirety,” said Dolly. “It was envisioned to have an elegant simplicity and timeless design that would remain current through the decades, which it has proven to be. The chapel is also a great example of successful aging, because it looks as good today as it looks 25 years ago.”
At the opening concert, the grand organ towered over the audience as organist and choirmaster Robert McCormick took to sitting before its many rows of keys. As the first notes struck the hall, a wave of stillness spread across the audience. Outside, a gentle rain fell, and thunder echoed across the landscape further enriching the deep harmonic bellowing of the mighty organ and adding to an atmosphere of awe and beauty. McCormick played all three of the Bower Chapel’s keyboard instruments: the organ, harpsichord, and piano; each a living testament to the enduring power of cathedral thinking.
“This is just the beginning, just the first twenty five years. That’s the beauty of cathedral thinking,” said Dan Lavender, CEO of Moorings Park Communities, at the opening concert.
Successful aging at Moorings Park Communities is a multifaceted concept that encompasses self-worth, meaningful relationships, spiritual growth, and wellness across every dimension. Music plays a powerful role in this philosophy. From research showing its positive impact on memory, mood, and mobility, to its ability to connect people across generations, music is a profound tool for well-being at Moorings Park Communities.
“The Bower Chapel’s musical programming offers our residents moments of deep connection and joy. Whether they are singing familiar hymns, listening to live performances, or hearing the classical music playing in Korest Plaza, these musical experiences nurture peace, hope, and strength,” said Brittany Greenwood, Director of Music Therapy at Moorings Park Communities. “The Bower Chapel’s music programming inspires us to grow, express, and connect through the universal language of music no matter our age.”
However, the Bower Chapel does more than connect residents through music: it inspires hope.
“When I moved here, I would ask myself: ‘Can we adjust to this? Is this going to work?’ Then one day I happened to read the inscription on the outside of the Bower Chapel: ‘In your hands.’ I realized this adjustment problem was up to me; it was in my hands. That’s how the building speaks,” said Rabbi Emeritus and Moorings Park resident James Perman. “The Bower Chapel is not a church or a synagogue; it becomes whatever you want it to be. It speaks through all of our voices.”
From the intentional design of environments that foster purpose and joy to the deeper meaning they acquire through the mindset and vision of residents, cathedral thinking has profoundly shaped Mooring Park Communities. It began with places like the Bower Chapel, and this legacy will weave through new spaces as Moorings Park Communities grows and evolves.
Like a lighthouse guiding ships to shore, the Bower Chapel stands as an unwavering beacon of hope, spirituality, and successful aging. A place where residents can nourish their spirit, connect with others, and find meaning in every season of life. As the years go on, new residents will grace its elegant hall; melodies played on its iconic instruments will fall upon new ears; new life and meaning will enrich the community through its history and vision, preserving the legacy of the Bower Chapel and reminding those who find themselves in its gentle embrace that peace, purpose, and belonging are always within reach.
Cathedral thinking first begins with recognizing your contribution. No matter who you are or why you’re here, we all have an impact on Moorings Park Communities. From residents and their families to partners and everyone in between, it’s our responsibility to work together to build a foundation for the next generation while preserving the legacy of those who came before us. In the words of the late Alan Korest:
“Like dandelion seeds, all of us must carry far and wide the love and spirituality of Moorings Park. We must not give up efforts to leave the world a better place than when we arrived.”
As Moorings Park Communities looks to the future, the Bower Chapel remains a timeless symbol of connection, music, and purpose. To discover how Naples’ most exclusive Life Plan Community blends luxury retirement living with a deeper sense of belonging, visit MooringsPark.org.