FAQs
Why do we need a restoration plan?
Since 1889, our church has served the Woodstock community as a beacon of light and hope for all who desire to draw closer to God. As a historic site, the church requires careful preservation and restoration. Our goal is not simply to maintain our campus buildings, but to honor the craftsmanship and sacrifices of those who built them and ensure their safety, beauty, and historic integrity for generations to come.
Who decides what improvement projects are needed and their priority?
The church’s trustees are responsible for maintaining the campus buildings and property, including periodically assessing facilities for safety, structural integrity, and aesthetics. When repairs or improvements are needed, the trustees evaluate the urgency, often with help from external experts. They then present recommendations to the church’s Governing Board for discussion and approval.
What projects are included in the current restoration plan?
The trustees have identified three initial projects.
- The exterior stained glass windows need repair. While most of the stained glass is intact, some of the frames have rotted, compromising the structural integrity of the stained-glass windows. In the few spots where the stained glass is damaged or repaired with non-matching glass, we need repairs and replacements. After the repairs are complete, we will add protective exterior shielding against weather and UV damage. These decades-old windows are a cherished element of the sanctuary building. Repairing/replacing the wooden frames and stained glass pieces will protect the irreplaceable craftsmanship from time and weather.
- The sanctuary interior needs painting in historically inspired color palettes that complement its historic architecture.
- In conjunction with the interior painting, the visible ductwork in the sanctuary will be removed to restore original ceiling vistas and architectural symmetry, and a new system will be integrated discreetly.
How long will the projects take?
The preservation/restoration plan is a multi-year project, and each component will take a different amount of time to complete. The congregation will receive regular updates on each project’s restoration and financial progress.
Will worship service be disrupted during the work?
Work for each component of the plan will be executed in carefully planned phases to limit disruptions to Sunday worship and other campus activities. We will clearly communicate any changes to the church’s regular schedule to the congregation through multiple communication channels.
How much will the projects cost?
Stained Glass Restoration – $84,000 (estimate)
Ductwork – $14,000 (estimate)
Painting – $13,000 (estimate)
Total – $111,000
Why not wait until the Making Room Campaign is paid off before starting another large project?
While the Making Room Campaign debt remains a priority, the stained glass window restoration cannot wait because the building faces critical, preventable damage from rotten window jambs and gaps that will become far more expensive to repair if delayed. Acting now protects the facility’s structural integrity and generates immediate long-term savings through improved energy efficiency in heating and cooling costs. The project addresses urgent deferred maintenance that poses an active threat to the building, making it financially prudent to proceed alongside—rather than after—paying off the Making Room debt. This phased approach allows the campus to address both priorities without compromising either mission or financial stability.
When will the work begin, and when will the order be done?
Work is scheduled to begin in October 2026, with the stained glass windows on the east side of the building as the first priority, as they need the most TLC. Then we will work on the remaining windows, one side at a time. Then we will move to the interior ductwork and painting.
How will the projects be paid for?
The church maintains a building fund for capital improvements. Half of the money received each month from Parking With A Purpose goes into the building fund. While this fund will support the renovation projects, it is not sufficient to cover all anticipated expenses.
We established the Campus Preservation Fund for anyone who wants to help honor our heritage and preserve our campus for generations to come.
We are working on obtaining grants to help cover project costs.
Does giving to the preservation fund replace my tithes/offerings or Making Room gifts?
No. The restoration work will be funded through special voluntary gifts over and above general giving, which supports the day-to-day operations of the church. The Making Room Fund is designated to retire the loan we took out to pay for the Latimer Hall renovation.
I have questions; where can I get answers?
Feel free to email the team your questions, thoughts, and concerns at [email protected].