Renovations of 1977

In April 1977, the church conference voted “on a challenging program to raise $140,540 over four years to restore, renew, and preserve our present church property.”  Clarence Webb chaired this campaign called “Renewing Our Heritage.” A kick-off covered dish dinner was held on May 5.  The June 1 newsletter reported that $142,559.60 had been pledged or received and more pledges were expected.  Phase III of “Renewing Our Heritage” included removing the vertical sliding door at the rear of the sanctuary, refinishing the pews and adding pew cushions.  The choir loft was redesigned and new choir chairs were purchased.  Wally Hutchison repaired the plaster, painted the sanctuary and sprayed the ceiling with acoustical material.  He built a wooden scaffold to the dome and the congregation worshiped beneath the scaffolding.  Orlin Sell of Fredonia handcrafted the large wooden cross and an altar table.  A turquoise drape was hung to cover the organ pipes and the cross was hung behind and above the choir.  No mention of carpeting is found in the written records, but it seems likely that the turquoise carpet was installed during the work completed between 1977 and 1979.  In October 1979, a total of $103,755 had been spent on this project with $13,065 held in reserve.