BrickbyBrick
This sanctuary, the heart of our faith community, has been hearing our prayers, praise, anthems, sermons, baptisms, weddings, and witness to the resurrection for almost a century. For the next 16 months it will undergo work to prepare it for another century and more generations of people serving God, thanks to the gifts of hundreds of families participating in our Rooted & Reaching in Christ’s Love capital campaign and to a generous bequest.
Deteriorating mortar will be ground down and replaced, cast stone and roofing will be repaired, windows will be waterproofed, and more.
Our worship and other activities will continue while we renovate.
What’s Happening Now
Blum Construction is setting up workspace on the third floor of the Shetler Building, which will save costs for renting a trailer. In mid-July fencing will go up along the Greene Street wall and near Memorial Columbarium. On the Elm Street side you will see mortar repairs and waterproofing on the light wells at the base of the walls. In August scaffolding will go up along the Greene Street and the back walls of the sanctuary and part of the Smith Building. Tuckpointing and cast stone work will begin in mid-September. Full schedule coming soon.
Checked off the list: The Smith elevator has new controls and security features, and all internet access points have been replaced.
Top 5 Things to Know
LIFE OF THE CHURCH: Worship and all other activities will continue. Parking areas will remain available.
WEEKLY SCHEDULE: Monday-Friday are workdays unless there is a funeral. No work on Sundays. No work on Saturdays except by permission.
SUNDAYS: Park and enter as usual. If your entrance is an active work site, a covered walkway will be in place.
SAFETY: If you are on campus during a workday, please wear a mask from and to your car if you are entering near a work area so that you will not inhale mortar dust.
More FAQs coming soon. Submit your question here.
About the Sanctuary
Architect Hobart Upjohn of New York City designed the sanctuary, assisted by Harry Barton of Greensboro. It was inspired by the Cathedral of St. Cecile in Albi in southern France, which was begun in 1282. Its style, called Southern French Gothic (or Fortress Gothic), was unusual for its time, built of brick rather than stone. Construction began in 1928 and the space was dedicated on October 6, 1929.
Learn more about the architecture, stained glass, carvings and other symbols.
