Things have been really cooking around here lately – and I don’t mean just the weather. The 2 largest 3 R’s project have been going full steam. The roof is complete, including the repair of the interior water damage and fresh paint. There is still the reoccurring problem in the entrance way, which is being attended to but was not part of the other repairs. The flat portion of roof over the Christian Education section had deteriorated further than we anticipated and a large portion of the steel decking had to be replaced.
Activity has been progressing all summer getting the chancel ready for the fall. The carpentry work is complete, new carpet is being installed – after a manufacturer’s error – and a projection screen was donated to complement the project; a flat screen TV will be hung in the annex. We are planning to be back in the sanctuary the week after Labor Day, on September 9.
There will be a new look during worship that will serve us for years to come. The choir will be able to see the service –and will have new looking chairs besides. The entire area will be more open and flexible. Even the organ will be mobile.
But what’s even more important in my mind than the building improvements is the addition of three new Church School classes this fall. We will be able to offer classes now for preschool through 8th grade, plus an adult class. This is something we have wanted to do for a long time. And it was the thing that people mentioned most in the Appreciative Inquiry process. After much prayer and work from CE Committee, we almost have the full age-range covered. We still need someone to teach grades 9-12. Talk to Jeff Barber if you can help. The details are in a separate article.
I sense a good feeling in the congregation. It’s nice to see things get done and be able to offer more educational opportunities. There is also a work-day planned for the men that will take care of some of odd jobs and repairs that need to be done. Chuck Cliffe is lining up tasks and people and food for after.
It looks like a great year is beginning. And mark your calendars for a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the CE building and chapel on October 14th.
Pastor Tom
