Greetings!
As most of you know by now, we at St. Matthew’s are gathering information to understand the full nature of the electrical and roof/ceiling issues we have experienced in a much more serious way this spring. We were forced to turn the breakers off in the hallway leading to the Nave, and then to the Nave itself, for safety concerns. You may have visited the church the week after Easter and saw the buckets going down the length of the hallway, there to catch the drips, drops and water flowing from the ceiling, and down the walls. We also have been forced to move the Sacristy to the Nursery, temporarily, while we dry that space out and get rid of the mold.
We want you to know that we are taking this work seriously, and almost immediately were in contact with professionals who continue to help us know what work we need to do, and in what stages. We are fortunate to have some in our congregation who are also able to offer good advice as we plan.
We want you to be informed and will do our best to let you know how things are shaping up.
As the Junior Warden, Charlene will take the lead in coordinating the work, gathering information, and working with contractors. We are in the process of forming a Building & Grounds Committee who will be helpful in making decisions, and plans for what gets done first, etc. Charlene Marth, Senior Warden Jim Hameister, Mthr. Betty and the entire Vestry will be working for the best outcome for St. Matthew’s!
We covet your prayers as we work to restore this sacred place to wholeness. We are also aware that this is going to be a process requiring a Capital Campaign, as we will likely not have enough reserves to cover what needs to be repaired. We’ll update you regularly both in this space, and on Sunday mornings – and you are welcome to contact us directly with questions!
Blessings,
Charlene Marth Jim Hameister Mthr. Betty+
Junior Warden Senior Warden Rector
Special Note
: Just as we were preparing to send this note out, an electrician came by and said the breakers that control the lights in the Nave are working! This means that we will likely be able to have services in the Nave this Sunday, although you may want to bring an extra sweater/or clothing layer, because the heat is off! Hooray for Spring!
Note also that we are still not able to turn the lights on in the hallway, and they will likely need to be rewired…
