In 1994 Erling Stordahl died, in 1995 his wife Anna. Erling and Anna accomplished a great deal during their active lives, but there was one project they were unable to realize: In their wills and in conversations shortly before their deaths, it emerged from both Anna and Erling that the funds left behind by them would go to the construction of a chapel at Beitostølen. Both had been working on this project for some time before their deaths, and in 1987 the plot of land where Erling wanted to build a church had been consecrated by the Polish Cardinal Jósef Glemp.
Through contributions from many of Anna and Erling's friends, grants from associations, businesses, municipalities and the county, and not least through efforts from employees at Beitostølen Health Sports Center, it was possible to build the chapel. The blind mission IL by Gustav-Borch-Nielsen's Honorary Fund provided a significant amount to finance the large stained glass window.
Lyskapellet is built after a church model that was at Kirsten and Erik Rostbøll's in Vestre Slidre municipality. Master carpenter Herbert Mollenhauer and carpenter Kjell Arne Båtevik set up the building, while the brothers Kjell Arne and Sigmund Årseth carried out the work of gilding and decoration. The artist Ferdinand Finne designed the stained glass, and Kirsten Rostbøll traveled to Germany to, together with the glass artist Harald Stephan, translate Finne's drawings into the artwork that carries the church's front.
Lyskapellet was consecrated on October 31, 2000 by Bishop Rosemarie Køhn. Princess Märtha Louise was also present and graced this solemn event.
Lyskapellet can be used by anyone who wishes - for church services and quiet meditation. The chapel can also be used for smaller concerts and other events that naturally belong in such a house.
