When building a new church addition, it helps to know a good carpenter!

Construction on the addition to the St. Barnabas church building is almost complete. The original structure, built in 1954, does not have a handicap-friendly restroom facility on the first floor. The addition will house the first floor restroom and added meeting space. "It has been a long time coming for the congregation," said Linda Sankovich, author of two construction grants totaling $35,000.00. The membership plans to raise the remaining balance with pledges. Click here to read the June 24, 2010 story about our addition in the Cheslea Standard. http://heritage.com/articles/2010/06/23/chelsea_standard/news/doc4c2229e...

"We have parishioners who have not been able to attend our services and activities because they could not use the stairs. This was a challenge to find a financially feasible solution. We want our parish to be accessible for all, emotionally, spiritually, intellectually, and physically," said Deacon David Glaser. He is overseeing the construction project that is on schedule. "It is closed in to the weather now, and soon we will be finishing the plumbing and will move on to the drywall and flooring."

The new space should be operational by autumn. The design includes a graded sidewalk from the parking lot in back to the entrance that will have a covered porch. This will provide added protection against inclement weather for bridal parties and funeral processions as they enter and leave the church. "There is great excitement at St. Barnabas. We are accomplishing this longtime goal and are making our House of God a place for all to attend. The congregation is growing and our space and programming is growing, too. In this economy, that is saying something," said Marcia Ledford, Outreach Coordinator. "We plan to have a ribbon cutting ceremony, and that date will be announced well in advance. At St. Barnabas the welcome mat is out! I think that Jesus and Joseph, his carpenter father, are very pleased."

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