The Second Century Campaign
On 29 May 2006 a Special Vestry meeting voted to begin a campaign to raise a sum of money to improve the church building and grounds. The aim of this project is to remove the plywood from the windows at the east and west ends of the building, and replace them with glass. We are finally installing a hardwood floor; replacing the two central sets of doors with doors with glass in them; installing a proper fence outside; and we have improved the existing sound system. We hope that we can finish this project this fall when we celebrate the centenary of the completion of this building.
The ultimate vision of these changes is to both preserve and maintain the current buildings and to enhance our ministry at SMM. Improving our "curb appeal" is a vital step forward in reaching out to our neighbours with the Gospel. It is important that we appear not only open, but also welcoming and accessible to a world in need of the presence of God made real in the church.
How You Can Contribute
The kick-off for this capital campaign was, appropriately, the Solemnity of the Feast of Dedication: a time when we celebrate the dedication of this site for the use of God's Church. Following this event, fundraising began in earnest as members and friends of SMM were invited to reflect on their relationship with God and make an offering in response that is appropriate to their circumstances.
If you are interested in pledging your support to the campaign, please contact Rob Castle or Bill Riddell through the church office.
Fundraising Committee Progress
The Fundraising Committee was established in June, 2006, to solicit donations for the Capital Campaign Project. It is chaired by Rob Castle and includes Fr Harold, Alice Bastedo, Brian Clarke, Heather McGregor, Rod Northey, Bill Riddell, and Wendy Telfer. As of February, 2007, the Committee had pledges totalling approximately $225,000. The goal of the campaign is to raise at least $350,000, therefore we have moved far towards our goal with more to come.
Building Committee Progress
The Building Committee, which includes Rod Northey (Chair), Fr Harold, Rob Castle, Eva Martin, Heather McGregor, and John Ferneley, presents drawings made by our Parish Architect, Mr. Ian McGillivray. These sketches show the direction we have been heading based on congregational meetings, surveys, and committee work. At a Special Vestry Meeting held in June 2007, the parish approved moving into the implementation phase on the following priority items:
- Removing the plywood from all of the windows at the east and west ends of the building and replacing all but the central east window with some form of glass that will minimize changes to the light and sound of the church;
- Installing a new hardwood floor throughout the church;
- Replacing wooden panels in the central doors with glass;
- Replacing the fence surrounding the church;
- Installing a new large church sign on the west lawn at the corner; and
- Installing a new sound system.
Click on any of the images below for a larger view.
