Time to Update the Church Building
Changing times, tastes, preferences and sensitivities to the needs of others causes churches everywhere to evaluate how they are welcoming to all people. Nearly two years ago the Trustees at Church of the Savior began to assess the current facility and what it would take to update it to meet the needs all people need today.
They presented their plan to to the church, and last Spring the Congregation overwhelmingly provided financial support for the projects that the trustees presented.
It started last Fall
Everything began last Fall with the installation of the multimedia system and multimedia center. The multimedia system included...
...State of the art sound
...Projection system with stationary cameras
...Lighting (stage and telligent lighting)
All the controls for these systems are located in a multimedia center that was designed and built to fit the decor of the overall sanctuary.
The Fall projects were rouned off by enlarging the aisles in the sanctuary by re-arranging the pews. This was quite a project! The pews had sat in the same space for over 40 years, but the construction team carefully removed and reset them in order to gain the additional space.
The side and center aisles were widened considerably. There was also a significant increase in the space between the pews from the very tight 31 inches to a more accessible 36 inches. The wider aisles have already resulted in a more comfortable seating arrangement for worshippers. The additional space provides easier access for persons with physical limitations, and provides additional comfort when seated for all people.
Current Projects Underway
Beginning in February the interior renovations project began in earnest. Here's what is currently happening...
1. Both vestibules (main doorways) are being completely renovated and restored to their original 1883 beauty. All wood is being stripped to take off the years of varnish that had left the wood looking like plastic. Already the stripped wood is looking phenomenal. Floor tile will be restored. New lighting fixtures will be installed. Can't wait to see the completed project!
2. The new handicapped accessible restroom is being built outside the sanctuary. One of our concerns was that there was no easy access to restroom facilities for persons with phsycial disabilities. Without doubt this is a tremendous example of how we care about all God's people.
3. The new women's restroom is under constuction.
4. The new library and media center is under construction.
5. Work has begun to install a new lift from the sanctuary level to the office level of the church. Until now persons with physical limitations had a very difficult time getting to the office level. With the new lift they won't have a problem any longer.
6. The main hallway (office level) will be completly remodeled to give it far more warmth and appeal.
7. The McKinley Welcome Center is currently under construction. Here members and visitors alike will gather in a warm inviting environment before and after worship to share a cup of coffee and meet new friends.
Projects for the Spring
This Spring, when the weather turns warmer, additional projects will be underway.
1. New clear storm windows to cover stained glass windows. Right now our windows are covered with a material that has yellowed and grown dull over the past 20 years. The new storms will be clear allowing the beauty of our historic windows to be seen by all those who pass by the church.
2. Air Conditioning to be installed that will provide cooling for the Sanctuary for worship, weddings, meetings and other events that may take place in the sanctuary.
