In 2008, St. Paul’s launched a capital appeal to replace Keever Hall and the Administration Building with a new facility. Unfortunately, the economic downturn that followed prevented the project from moving forward. While the campaign did not achieve its original goal, funds had already been received and remained available for future use. Several years later, Lee Weddle proposed a new vision. Rather than allowing those funds to sit unused, he suggested investing them in improvements that would strengthen and enhance our existing campus. The congregation embraced that vision, and the Nehemiah Committee was formed. Much like the biblical Nehemiah, who rebuilt and renewed the walls of Jerusalem, the committee undertook a series of projects that have improved the life and ministry of St. Paul’s for years to come.

Over the years, the Nehemiah Committee has completed numerous projects, including:

• Renovation of the Sacristy
• Renovation of the Praise Choir area
• Renovation of the Annex
• Construction of the walkway connecting the church and Annex
• Renovation of the area beneath the Sanctuary
• Installation of the Sanctuary sound and video system
• Renovation of the Administration Building restrooms
• Creation of storage space for the Quilters
• Engineering assessment of Keever Hall and recommendations for future work

The committee is preparing to complete its final project: the renovation of the Church Parlor.

The Parlor has served generations of members and visitors, but it has not undergone a significant renovation in many years. Approved by the congregation in 2017, this project will refresh and modernize one of the most frequently used gathering spaces in our church while also updating the adjoining kitchenette.

Planned improvements include:

• Removal of the popcorn ceiling
• Refinishing of the hardwood floors
• Installation of new LED lighting with dimmer controls
• Replacement of blinds and curtains
• Reupholstering selected furniture
• Purchase of new furnishings
• Installation of new cabinetry and appliances in the kitchenette
• Painting throughout the Parlor and kitchenette

Work is scheduled to begin during the week of June 28 and is expected to be completed within several weeks. The Nehemiah Fund currently contains $73,783. Estimated project costs total $33,382. Remaining funds will be used to retire the mortgage on the Annex and support the expansion of the Ash Garden.

With the completion of the Parlor renovation, the Nehemiah Committee will conclude its work. What began as a response to an unfinished building campaign became a ministry of stewardship, renewal, and faithful investment in the facilities God has entrusted to us. We give thanks for the vision of those who served on the committee, for the generosity of the congregation, and for the many improvements that will continue to support ministry at St. Paul’s for years to come.

Nehemiah Committee

~ Lynda Shell

~ Dan Huggins

~ John Gibbons