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about tHe Church Building Improvements
As we look to the future, we have a beautiful opportunity to renew the space where we worship and praise Him.
Our Vision:
- Paint the Sanctuary and repair Northwest corner – A fresh, welcoming environment that reflects God’s light.
- Replace Carpeting and refinish wood floors– Creating a warm, inviting space for all who gather.
- Evaluate configuring the Church Sanctuary
Together, let’s continue to honor God by caring for His house and preparing it for generations to come.
2026 Project Proposals: Planning for Our Future
Front Office Remodel
Why Remodel the Front Office?
Our front office is the first point of contact for visitors and members, and we want it to reflect both hospitality and efficiency.
This remodel will allow us to:
- Create secure offices for our financial team, ensuring sensitive paperwork is protected.
- Improve day to day efficiency and add offices for counseling and other needs.
- Relocate the school library, opening space for an additional classroom.
- This year, we had a waiting list of 10 preschoolers we could have welcomed if we had the extra room.
Church Addition
Imagine a Space Designed for Connection and Growth. Our new addition will create opportunities to gather, learn, and serve more effectively.
- Areas for church ministries, fellowship, and group activities
- Bible classes and Sunday School all under one roof
- Seating for 200+ people, designed for larger events and gatherings(e.g., funeral luncheons)
- Improved accessibility for all ages and abilities, including:
- An elevator with access to the sanctuary and basement
- Updated bathrooms
- Church library moved from basement to fellowship area for better access
- A full kitchen to support meals, events, and hospitality
Our Organ: More Than Music—A Historical Treasure
- Installed in 1908
- One of the largest functioning pipe organs in the region
- Valued at $1.5 million
- A living piece of our history—we have an opportunity to maintain it for the future
What Needs Attention:
- Motor and wiring (over 100 years old)
- Pipework from multiple eras needs tonal corrections
- Estimated $800,000
Find more information on the St. John's Project Management Vision here.
Why These Changes Matter
Foster fellowship and ministry with areas for Bible study and group activities.
Expand educational space—welcome more students and reduce waiting lists.
Ensure accessibility for all with modern updates like an elevator.
Create a unified, welcoming environment for generations to come.
Improve functionality and security for staff and financial operations.
Preserve our historic building and treasured feature, including our 115-year-old pipe organ, a living piece of our history.
Your Voice Matters
These projects represent a significant commitment, and we want to approach them with care and responsibility.
Your input is invaluable as we make these decisions. Please help guide decisions on building updates and improvements by taking
our survey. For more information or if you have questions, please contact the Project Management team at 920-261-3756 or projectmanagement@stjohnswatertown.org
