Sanctuary Renovation

Last year, during our visioning process, we identified a goal of renovating our sanctuary to better support our mission of helping people connect with God through worship. We are excited to share that this vision is about to become a reality.

Work on the project is scheduled to begin on July 27. The first phase will include the installation of new audiovisual equipment, which will enhance both the in-person and online worship experience while once again allowing the cross at the center of our sanctuary to be clearly visible. After that, the walls and ceiling of the sanctuary will receive a fresh coat of paint, followed by the installation of new carpeting. Finally, the pews will be spaced slightly farther apart to provide a little more room and comfort as we gather for worship.

To allow this work to be completed safely and efficiently, the sanctuary will be closed beginning August 1. We anticipate the project will take most of the month of August. During this time, all worship services will be held in the Community Life Center.

Our regular worship schedule will continue without interruption. Traditional worship will be held on Saturdays at 5:30 p.m. and Sundays at 8:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Contemporary worship will continue on Sundays at 9:45 a.m., and our 11:00 a.m. Sunday service will continue to be livestreamed each week.

While temporarily moving our worship services may require a little flexibility, the Church has never been defined by a building. We are grateful for the opportunity to improve the space God has entrusted to us, and we invite you to join us throughout August as we continue to worship our faithful God together in the Community Life Center.

Finally, we want to share how these renovations are being funded. The project is being paid for entirely through our Capital Fund, which consists of proceeds from the sale of former church rental properties and reimbursement received through the Employee Retention Credit program during the COVID-19 pandemic. These resources are designated for capital improvements and are separate from our operating budget. Your regular tithes and offerings continue to support the ministries, missions, staff, and outreach that allow Chippewa United Methodist Church to make a meaningful difference in our community and around the world.

Thank you for your patience, flexibility, and continued support as we take this exciting step together. We look forward to welcoming everyone back into a refreshed sanctuary as we continue our mission of helping people connect with God and one another through the life and ministry of our church.