St. George’s Building Project and Capital Campaign
updated September 28, 2022
You are welcome at St. George’s: Regardless of race, nationality, sexual orientation, gender expression, or
tradition.
In the 1990’s, St. George’s adopted its first expression of this welcome statement representing our commitment to hospitality—no exceptions. These words have been a balm to many who have found a warm welcome at our red doors and continue to shape our ministry today. Our commitment to radical hospitality has required us to listen deeply and look with fresh eyes at our parish home. Seeing our beloved and historic building through the eyes of our siblings-in-Christ has resulted in changes to a facility that more fully express our radical hospitality. This project, called “Open to All in Love,” emerged from the dreams of parishioners – like you – to fully live into our welcome statement by making sure our facilities are truly welcome and accessible to all.
For an overview of the project, read our Case Statement here.
View concept drawings of the project here.
We welcome your feedback on the project as we continue to work to finalize plans and design elements. If you have questions about the project or would like to share feedback, please send it to us here.
We will continue to update this page throughout the project and will share new information as we have it. We hope that you will review the information here and prayerfully consider how you might support this project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the timeline for the project?
We plan to have the capital campaign (fundraising portion) and the design portion finished in 2023. We would then hire a contractor, with work beginning in 2024, and an anticipated completion date of early to mid-2025.
Is adding a ramp necessary? What about the elevator access through Sydnor Hall on George Street?
Adding a ramp will enable all to enter our central worship space safely and with dignity.
Many people have shared with us that they are not comfortable using the elevator because of the steep incline on George Street. This steep sidewalk is dangerous for those in wheelchairs, those using canes or walkers, or those with mobility concerns.
Will we lose meeting space by moving the church office to Faulkner Hall?
Our plan includes building a new meeting space in the graveyard that is comparable in size to Faulkner Hall. Additionally, we will have a small meeting space where the current church office is located.
How much will this project cost?
An initial estimate, based on the concept drawings, is between $4-4.5M for all aspects of the project.
Can the project be done in phases?
We considered multiple scenarios and it makes most sense to complete the project as a whole rather than in phases. Construction of the new meeting space, the elevator, and the new ramp into the nave will all require careful access in the graveyard and is best done at one time.
Will there be a columbarium added?
Yes! The plan includes adding a columbarium on the exterior of the newly built meeting space in the graveyard that will be a place of serenity and memorial.
What about the current graves in the graveyard?
Caring for the graves respectfully and professionally is a top concern and every step will be taken to ensure to minimize disruption.
We are partnering with local historic preservation experts, Dovetail Cultural Resource Group to ensure local and state ordinances are followed. Their work will include initial site investigation, all archeological work, and they will be onsite during construction. They are experts in properly caring for excavation sites and will story any artifacts uncovered. At a later date, we plan to re-inter any recovered remains in our graveyard and / or another local cemetery.
How can I share feedback or ask questions about the project?
If you have questions about the project or would like to share feedback, please share send it to us here.