Dear Friends

Space Limitations

Cross Roads, September 26, 1990

Dear Friends,

The closer we get to a resolution of our space problems, the more aware I am of how cramped we really are.

Sunday morning is the worst, of course. As many of our Church School teachers could tell you, a majority of our children are learning their faith in very inadequate circumstances. Sixteen two-year-olds and their teachers are jammed into a room designed for half that number. (An overloaded popcorn popper is the image that comes to mind!) Twenty fourth graders and even more third graders are crowded into small classrooms. All three clergy offices (and the choir room) are overflowing with students.

During the week there are problems as well. The Disciples of Christ in Community program began Monday night with over seventy participants. Finding adequate space for the seven small groups involved is proving a challenge. The Anglican Student Fellowship, 40+ every Tuesday evening, has outgrown the Student Commons, intended for Campus Ministry. Storage space is a growing problem as boxes and chairs clutter and narrow the hallways.

Last week I received a call from the chairman of a Diocesan committee wanting to sponsor a presentation here for which 200 are expected. I told him we would have to hold it in the church. “You mean a parish of your size has that small a parish hall?” he asked in surprise. I explained that it has served us well, but that it was built seventy-five years ago when we had less than a tenth of the communicants we have now.

Our buildings and their constant use are part of the strong heritage of this parish, as is their adaption and augmentation whenever that has become necessary. As increased demands on our space continue, I am greatly relieved and encouraged to know that, in that tradition, we are taking steps to respond.

-- Stephen