Vest's ideas

 

  1. Accessibility for mobility challenged attendees getting into the church and also onto the chancel was the first thing they said
  2. Seating:

a.      room to maneuver between rows and in aisles

b.      flexibility in seating arrangement; Jim really likes the idea of being in a circle, but they acknowledge the difficulty of that.  Maybe half crescents?

c.      stability of seating and racks for hymnals & Bibles, whether pews or chairs; maybe a mix of pews & chairs?

d.      Nancy suggested having the pulpit on a lower level to make the pastor appear more accessible


 They realize that not all suggestions can be incorporated, and that our concern is to make sure everyone feels that they've been heard.  Jim also had an interesting comment that I think is good for us to keep in mind as we go through this process.  I mentioned that there had been some hints that some people might leave the church if their preferences were not met (eg. keeping the pews or getting rid of the pews and going with chairs).  He said he felt that is actually a form of bullying; I hadn't thought about it like that, but he's right.


I'd also like to share some ideas from another church member who is not on this focus group, but does have some ideas that should be heard as well.  She feels that the sanctuary should be able to serve multiple purposes, and so flexible seating would be important.  Also a hardwood floor rather than carpeted for possible dancing during concerts or other functions.  While it is a worship space, it's only used once a week for that purpose so maybe it would be more practical to be able to accommodate other uses.  She also suggested that the former library room be used as a "quiet" or children's room with a TV monitor so parents could take their children in there to color or play quietly, and still watch the service.  It could also have a small altar under the round window and act as a little chapel of sorts.


So there are some things to consider.  I guess we should think about when we can meet, and it would probably be good to meet in person so we can look at diagrams of the sanctuary while we talk, or even meet at the church.  I will be out of town from Friday 3/14 through Monday 3/17 and then Sunday 3/23 through Monday 3/24 - but there is a congregational meeting with Laura Jeffords on 3/23, so that day would be out anyway.  Please be thinking of what would work for all of you.  If you want a daytime meeting, I can try to take off work.  A lot of work is ahead of us, but it's exciting to finally start making some plans.


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