Located on the middle campus of Lake Forest College, the Lily Reid Holt Memorial Chapel stands as one of the most revered buildings on campus. The chapel was dedicated by Mrs. Simon S. Reid to her daughter Lily Reid Holt in 1898, and was built between the years 1899 and 1900. Designed by Charles Frost and Alfred Granger, the chapel is constructed in the Tudor-Gothic style and was based on the model of English abbeys. One of the most distinguishing features of the chapel is the cloistered colonnade linking it to the Reid Memorial Library, which was meant to be symbolic of the joining of intellect and spirit. The chapel also features a high pitched roof, and a tall Gothic tower.

Inside, the sanctuary is adorned with five Tiffany lamps that were originally located in the First Presbyterian Church of Lake Forest, just down Sheridan Road from the chapel. These lamps were given to the chapel in 1940 when First Presbyterian went through an extensive series of renovations. Another notable Tiffany feature of the sanctuary is the 1902 stained glass window that was commissioned by Mrs. Reid. The window portrays lilies, that are symbolic of resurrection (and pay homage to Lily Reid Holt herself), and a dove, which is symbolic of peace. The sanctuary’s organ was built and installed in 1900 by the Æolian-Votey Company.

There was an extensive remodel in 1977, when the chapel was also rededicated. With this renovation, new lights were installed, fire alarms were added, and accessibility features such as a ramp were constructed. All of this was done with care in order to preserve the architectural integrity of the building. In 2004, there was another renovation that also included restoration efforts.

The chapel has remained an important place of community since its construction. Daily attendance (to the old campus chapel) was required until 1892, but was then changed to six times a week until 1903. Up until the 1920s, LFC students were required to attend chapel at least four times a week, but the student body was “religiously apathetic” according to the student newspaper, The Stentor, and did not attend as often as they were told. This rule loosened over time.

Today, many secular events are held at the chapel. Speakers, music rehearsals, and concerts are held there, along with religious services for the Community Church of Lake Forest/Lake Bluff, an independent non-denominational organization founded in 1999. In the summer months, the Community Church holds worship services at Sunrise Beach in Lake Bluff.