Thanks to the hard work and effort of a few willing workers, and the financial support of many others, the chancel got a bit of a “facelift.”

The idea was “hatched” when the team working on other renovations realized that the 10% “overage” from other projects was closer to 15%, leaving 350 square feet of tile … just enough for upgrading the altar platforms in the chancel.

The final steps were being completed as March began, with custom oak trim being installed around the “step up” for both platforms. The oak trim is stained and finished to match the existing wood surfaces including the altar, communion rail, and reredos (that’s the wooden wall behind the altar).

Additionally, new floodlights will replace the ones installed at Christmas time. Most agreed that the brighter light (each bulb is 11,000 lumens) is helpful, but it’s too “white.” LED Bulbs have a “color temperature rating.” Typical incandescent bulbs have a rating of 2,700k (the “k” stands for kelvin), while “daylight” bulbs are 4,000k. The new bulbs will more closely resemble the color of a traditional incandescent bulb. They are also “dimmable,” which will provide even more options for candlelight and other services.

What’s next? Completing the projects already started! Volunteers have the pieces of wood necessary to complete more of the work in the chapel, especially now that the electrical and expansion of the computer network is complete. Other trim, such as a “base shoe” will also be installed. Some of the trim work around the new chapel doors will have to wait until the doors are installed.

Speaking of doors … the doors are mostly still a large stack of lumber, hardware, glass, and lead came. But in the coming weeks, craftsmen will complete some of the work. Doors for at least one opening SHOULD be installed by Holy Week!