Formal Rededication Event Marks Opening of Chelsea Retirement Community Chapel & Performing Arts Center
Brio Living Services and UMRC-Porter Hills Foundation celebrated the opening of Chelsea Retirement Community (CRC)’s newly renovated and expanded Chapel & Performing Arts Center at a formal rededication ceremony in this new space on August 26, 2026.
Nearly 150 guests were on hand, including special guest Bishop David A. Bard of the Michigan Conference of the United Methodist Church who led the blessing and dedication of the new space. Other speakers included Russ Ives, Chair of the Brio Living Services Board and grandson of Bishop Marshall Reed who presided over the opening dedication of the CRC Chapel in 1952. Musical entertainment included Brass Animals and a surprise video from Chelsea native Jeff Daniels.
An anonymous gift to the UMRC-Porter Hills Foundation has allowed for the transformation and expansion of this space to enhance worship and create an inviting space for cultural activities, including concerts, art displays, and lifelong learning. Key components include state-of-the-art technology to support hearing and vision needs, as well as improved accessibility for all. The new space has more than doubled in size—from 3,300 square feet to nearly 8,400 square feet.
The CRC Chapel has reflected the faith-based mission of Brio Living Services for more than 70 years, according to Brio President and CEO Steve Fetyko. “This is far more than a renovation—it is a profound investment in the heart and spirit of the CRC community,” said Fetyko. “This space will become a cornerstone of daily life at CRC. It will be where individuals deepen their faith, where our community gathers in meaningful ways, where we honor and remember loved ones, and where the arts bring joy, inspiration, and connection. The impact of this gift will be felt in countless moments—both quiet and celebratory—for years to come.”
Kelli Smith, CFRE, President & CEO of the UMRC-Porter Hills Foundation, the charitable arm of Brio Living Services, said, “Because of the generosity of those who helped make this possible, a dream materialized—a celebration of us coming together. There is nothing more powerful than that. Worship, prayer, remembrance, storytelling, and performances in this space give voice to life experiences. In our community, it is especially meaningful. Our residents care deeply and carry deep wisdom, history, resilience, and stories of their own. This space allows for those stories to be shared, celebrated, and passed on. In that way, this Chapel & Performing Arts Center is not simply a building, but a living expression of a song’s message, a place where community gathers, voices rise, hope is renewed, and people of every age and generation are reminded that glory is found in faith, perseverance, memory, music, and togetherness.”
In his dedication, Bishop Bard said, “There are places and spaces that have been important in our own spiritual journeys. This can be such a place, where we hear one another well and listen deeply for the voice of the Spirit. May you find strength here to engage the world with love. May your hearts be tranquil here. May you find comfort here; laugh and weep and sing here. May you hear the whispers of God here. May the gentle breeze of the Spirit whisk your soul here.”
Fetyko added, “What moves me most is the lasting legacy this space creates. It reflects our faith-based roots, strengthens our sense of belonging, and elevates the quality of life for everyone who calls CRC home. The donor’s generosity will touch lives in ways that are both seen and unseen, shaping experiences and memories across generations. I cannot wait to see all the joyous life and wonderful works that will happen in the decades to come in this amazing space.”
An internal event for CRC residents was held on Sunday, August 23 with entertainment by the Detroit Youth Choir.
Learn more about Chelsea Retirement Community and how you can support future programming through the CRC Chapel & Performing Arts Center Endowment Fund.