The majority of this project will involve removing and replacing the Sanctuary’s roof structure. Because this will require the space to be closed during construction, we’re taking advantage of that time to complete additional renovations to the sanctuary and building. That work includes projects such as repointing mortar, installing new windows, updating four HVAC units, and making various aesthetic improvements, including paint, finishes, and more. Additional updates may be identified as we get closer to the start of work, covering other needs outlined in our five-year plan.

Yes, architects and engineers have said we can use the Sanctuary as normal and will continue to monitor its roof structure. Because it takes time to decide on design plans, get permits, and complete construction, it was recommended to start the process now.

Parts of this project were already included in our five-year plan, but we didn’t anticipate the scope of work needed on the roof structure. Like many other churches built about 100 years ago, regular maintenance and renovation have been part of caring for this space over the years and are always expected. Engineers who have examined the roof structure advised us to begin the construction planning process because of the time required to prepare for and start the work.

When renovation work was performed on our Sanctuary roof structure in 2018, engineers did not identify any issues with the load-bearing beams supporting the roof. However, as weight has redistributed over the past seven years, new pressure points have developed on the existing beams. During an initial review earlier this year, engineers recommended moving forward with the project to stay within the appropriate timeline.

In the spring and summer, we had engineers assess our roof structure before seeking bids for construction in June and July. Our Session approved the hire of DTW Architects & Planners in August and contracts were signed in October. We’re working with Paul Young, DTW’s President and Principal Architect.

We won’t know the full timeline until spring 2026, when we’ll be presented with a scope of work by our architect. We do know that in the coming months, we'll have three phases:

• Initial design work: General measurements by our architect and first round of discussion around design options and ideas.

• Drawing of work: Electrical, mechanical, lighting, and structural engineers will perform detailed review of the building to refine measurements and scope of work.

• Licensing and permitting: Once the scope of work is determined and designs are selected, the architect will get approvals, permits, and licensing completed with city and county officials.

The expectation is that these three phases will take eight to 12 months to complete.

Based on estimates from our architect, we expect work will begin toward the end of 2026.

We won’t have a final cost until architects and engineers perform additional reviews and a design is selected by our Session. Our expectation is for the total cost of renovation to be at least $4 million.

We’ll need to hold a capital campaign to raise funds for this project. Pastor Goodie and the Session are currently gathering a capital campaign team, and we expect to share more about this opportunity with the congregation in 2026.

This means that we will need Presbytery approval before securing a loan to pay for work. This project is mainly focused on structural aspects of our building and we’re confident we’ll be able to collaborate with the Presbytery on this project.

Because construction will focus on the roof structure and other aspects of the Sanctuary, disruption to our normal rhythms is expected. It’s too early to know, but we expect that our Sanctuary won’t be usable for at least four to six months after work begins.

As the Session has discussed this project, they've seen this as an opportunity to clarify and reaffirm our call to our longtime neighborhood, which has shaped the identity and mission of our congregation for generations. While construction will be disruptive and costly, there isn't a calling to another place.

We'll continually update you on our website and in our weekly newsletter, Life Together. If you don't already receive our newsletter, sign up here. You are also welcome to email buildingproject@blacknall.org.