Replicating the illustrious steeple of the Motherhouse Chapel, which peaks through the arbors of the campus and overlooks the city, the new Marjorie Jordan Carillon Plaza and clock tower serves as the campus' centerpiece. Dedication ceremonies took place on November 22, 1998 as Rev. Greg Nevlud blessed the carillon plaza, along with University President Louis J. Agnese, the Board of Trustees and the donor herself, Marjorie Ann Jordan.

The carillon chimes the hour between 7:00 a.m. and midnight. It plays liturgical music on the half-hour until 9:30 p.m., and the Hymn to the Incarnate Word every day at 3:00 p.m. The liturgical music changes with the season, and there is music for special occasions. The clock's faces and stained glass are illuminated at dusk.

Listen to the Hymn to the Incarnate Word

NORTH: Fern; represents Fernridge, or Brackenridge Villa, the home and estate of banker George Washington Brackenridge purchased by the Sisters at the end of the 19th century. CCVI; the initials for the Latin name of the Congregation, Congregatio Sororum Caritatis a Verbo Incarnato. Lamb; Agnus Dei, the Christ of the Resurrection.

 

SOUTH: Eagle; represents both the United States and Mexico in the heritage of the Congregation of Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word. 1881; the date of the charter from the State of Texas for the University of the Incarnate Word. Crown of Thorns; the crown of thorns with a heart and the words Amor Meus was worn on the scapular of the original habit of the Incarnate Word Sisters.

 

EAST: Fleur de Lis/Harp; represents France, the origin of the Congregation, and Ireland, the homeland of many of the Sisters in this century. Bishop's Staff/Miter; Bishop Claude Dubuis, first Bishop of Texas was the founder of the Congregation and for whom Dubuis Hall was named. Lamp and Book; represents education, scholarship and service in the mission of the University.

 

WEST: Star; represents the Star of Bethlehem announcing the birth of the Incarnate Word. Dove; represents both peace and the Holy Spirit. Oak Tree and river represent the many stately oaks on the campus at the headwaters of the San Antonio River.