Frequently Asked Questions

Grandpa loved that chancel when it was built in 1970.   Why are we changing it?

The chancel area renovation is a hope and a promise for the future. Redesigning the chancel area will enable Christ Lutheran to have more flexibility in worship planning, including providing a more intimate worship space if desired. The chancel area will become a better equipped community space not only for worship, but for education and for entertainment such as musical programming. There is a lot of unused space in the current chancel area that limits such opportunities.

I heard that chairs, which are less expensive, were considered for the congregant seating.   Why were they rejected? 

After long consideration, it was decided that there are several reasons for choosing pews. They are more conducive to families with children, giving them more space for diaper bags and such and allowing the children more comfort and room than chairs. A pew, even empty, provides more stability than a chair might when kneeling or rising. Pews are also more durable. While chairs would cost less in the short-term, their life expectancy is about one-half to one-third the longevity of pews. The warranty on pews will last two and a half times longer than the warranty on chairs. Hardwood pews will be more durable than chairs containing cushion seating.

There will be no hymnal racks.   Does this mean that we plan never to have hymnals again?   And, more importantly, where will I put my triple-mocha, double-latte, grande expresso and extra-cheese bean burrito?  

Our bulletins provide the worship service in order, including hymns, which means there is no flipping back and forth between pages or books. Also, it is unlikely that there will be another worship book published to replace the current one.

There will be no offering envelope holders.   Does this mean that we will not be passing the plate even after social distancing is over?

The offering plates will be passed again starting in the near future, and there will be locations with envelopes if needed for an offering. Plus, there are other ways to give offerings to the church, including online options.

What type of debt obligation will the project place on the church? Will payments be part of the budget?

The church property will be collateral for a loan to be requested from the ELCA Mission Investment Fund. The value of the property will fulfill the requirement for a loan. Christ Lutheran will have a Capital Campaign Drive that aims to raise a substantial amount to offset the loan.

Is there wheelchair access to the chancel?

We will construct a portable ramp which will allow for wheelchair access to the chancel area when necessary.