Almighty God, whose glory fills the heavens and whose call brought our world to life: We thank you for those who came before us in this church; by their faith in you we have this place in trust for those who will come after us; lead us, we pray, to build with courage, strength and vision, that we may welcome all who come to worship you, lowering barriers and lifting spirits; through Jesus Christ, who dwells with you and the Spirit in glory everlasting. Amen.
Dedication
Notes from the Senior Warden:
Dedication Sunday--November 15th 2009
About a year and half ago we started on our journey to raise funds for a much
needed Accessibility addition and parking lot to our 145 year old building. This
effort is just one of many ways we celebrate St. Paul's and our on-going
commitment to our Church home. Through the generosity of many, we have raised
over $431,000 (additionally, our own sweat equity has contributed to the success
of this effort). Unfortunately (but not really surprised with the age of our
structure) we had to spend an unexpected $50,000 replacing an antiquated heating
and air conditioning system, repaired termite damage and the roof on the
Narthex. So, even though It is hard to believe that our addition to the church
and parking lot are complete--we'll have lots of work ahead of us! We
are just blessed with big-heartedness--thank you so much for your contributions
already made and those that continue to come in...your time, your expertise and
your financial support. We have so much to be thankful for and it is a wonderful
time to celebrate St. Paul's and our community together.
Eastside Addition: New Entry and Bathrooms: Through the That All May Enter campaign, we created a handicap accessible entryway on the southeast side of the church and two handicap accessible multi-facility restrooms.
Eastside Addition: Nursery and Northeast Access: Through the campaign, we created a 700 sq. ft. nursery with bathroom and changing area in the new eastside addition.
Parking Lot: We created a 20-space parking lot, including specified handicapped spots, located on the east side of the church. The parking lot is connected to the covered walkway and handicap accessible east entrance.
Exterior Covered Walkway: The campaign provided for a covered walkway, supported by wooden columns, connecting the parking lot to the handicap accessible entrance. The walkway protects us from the elements while enhancing the appearance of the new eastside addition to the church.
Columbarium and Garden: As a fulfillment to a longstanding promise, this campaign included a columbarium and meditative space for parishioners and their loved ones. Adjoining the new east entryway, the columbarium has been constructed using campaign funds, supplemented by memorial fund sources. The garden area will be completed using congregational ‘sweat equity’, further reducing costs. Attached is more information about the Columbarium.
A columbarium is a place for the respectful storage of cinerary urns (i.e. urns holding a deceased’s cremated remains). The term comes from the Latin columba (dove) and originally referred to compartmentalized housing for doves and pigeons.