Building Renovation Project                        ...by Denise Skillman, senior warden

It wasn't raining when Noah built the ark. When warned about things not yet seen,Noah was moved to build an ark in a dry, landlocked region where it was inconceivable that there would ever be enough water to float the vessel. Eventually the rain came, and kept on coming.

It was faith that led our ancestors to build an Episcopal church in Bandon more than a century ago, when the town was little more than a trading post. And it was faith that guided them to rebuild after the great fire of 1936, in spite of a decreased population and depressed economy. It was also faith that led members to keep adding to the building and improving it as the congregation grew and needs changed.

As inheritors and faithful stewards of St John's complex, it is our duty not only to keep it clean and secure, but to ensure that it is structurally sound, economical to maintain, adaptable for a wide variety of uses, and capable of helping us carry our faithful ministry forward for the next 100 years.              

We are blessed with a beautiful church and assortment of indoor spaces in which we can gather to worship and work together and which we can share with the community.

Under Lara Mickle's leadership, the Building Committee has identified and prioitized need repairs and improvements and reviewed bids.

Of utmost concern are several cracks in the cement foundation beneath the sacristy, the library and classroom. These cracks have shown signs of widening in recent years, apparently due to settling along the east side of the building. Architect Tom Stark has identified a hydraulic system that can stabilize the foundation with major reconstruction.    

The project will lower electricity and heating costs by installing insulation and vapor barriers beneath the entire complex and installing energy efficient lighting in Theresa Hall. It will improve the buffet service, install more convenient electrical outlets, create more storage, and improve handicapped access. Blueprints are available for the congregation to review and are being forwarded to the Diocese.

The plan and bids were reviewed by he Building Committee and BAC on April 19th: budget includes 1) architect $6,500; 2) foundation $22,800; 3) construction $79,000; 4) permits $850. Total estimated cost is $109,150.

When most churches reach this point, they are forced to initiate  a fundraising program. Fortunately, we are prepared. We set aside approximately $144,568 for this project when we sold the vicarage. This budget leaves us with $35,418 for contingencies or for future projects.