Beginning Stages of Enhancement
The photos provided are the beginning stages of the Sanctuary Enhancement Project. These photos show the intent of opening up the chancel area for better use of the space, new chancel furnishings which are less dominant in size, and enhanced lighting. A better sound system is also a concern, but is not depicted in the photos.
I love to tell the story; ‘tis pleasant to repeat What seems, each time I tell it, more wonderfully sweet. The sanctuary certainly seems like one that has been in our minds for many years; in fact, it had its beginnings in early 2002 when artwork was the primary focus. The vision expanded in our minds, the vision was shared with others, and the vision became part of Sharon’s Fulfilling the Dream campaign. The last several months have been an exciting time for the Sanctuary Task Force as we are getting closer to the start date of the renovation, the end of May. We have seen a glimpse of the beauty to come with the addition of the new baptismal font, altar, and ambo (pulpit/lectern) to the chancel area. Celebrating Christ’s resurrection at Easter was a fitting time to also witness the beginnings of the resurrection of our sanctuary. The altar and ambo arrived in time for Easter services, while we have had the baptismal font since last summer.
The story behind the enhancement of I love to tell the story, for some have never heard The message of salvation from God’s own holy Word. The chancel furniture itself tells a story. The baptismal font has a water motif with the fish representing Christ and the shell representing the sacrament of baptism. The wheat and grape motif of the artwork on the altar symbolize the bread and wine of the Eucharist. The ambo has artwork of a dove and olive tree to symbolize the Holy Spirit and the Living Word.
The designs of all incorporate maple and cherry woods, metal, and stained glass. The metal and stained glass artwork is the design of the late David Hetland and the wood craftsmanship is from Minot Sash and Door. The renovation list—new chancel platform, clerestory window, cross, sound system, lighting, organ cabinet resurfacing, carpet, pew recovering, and projection system—will be a much needed, and beautiful enhancement to our worship space. Two Sharon families have already generously donated funds for the altar, baptismal font, and paschal candle. The scope of the project to be completed this summer is based on the amount of funds available through Fulfilling the Dream gifts and specifically designated gifts. As of mid-April, total dollars from both funds were approximately $220,000. In order to complete the project by September, without having to extend into fall, additional dollars are needed. The project estimate is between $255,000 and $275,000.
This is the third and final year of the capital campaign so we should all be completing our pledge commitment. Some may want to consider making an additional donation or designating dollars for a specific aspect of the renovation. Others, who have not pledged, may consider an initial contribution.
God is our keeper, and we are the keepers of God’s house. Please prayerfully consider your stewardship role.
If you have comments feel free to share them with any of the Sanctuary Enhancement Task Force members:
Mary Askim-Lovseth (chair), Ken Johnson, Oben Gunderson, Dave Braaten, Craig Knudsvig, Mike Welsh, Vicki Ronkowski, Lyle Johnson, Sue Kerr, Tom Wogsland, Pastor John, and Alice Senechal.
