Paper
Piles, boxes, stacks of it. Throughout the nine-year process of planning our new building we have accumulated an amazing amount of paper. I have been inundated with paper. Fortunately, some of the information can be stored on my computer so I don't have to step over it. I probably have over 25 pounds of paper from what has been submitted to the township. In reviewing the files, I came across a very meaningful poem written by one of our members back in 2001.
Designing a Church
Blueprints, budgets, architectural design
Function, elegance, with good clean lines
Permits, meetings, much verbal debate
On what we like and what we definitely hate.
Pictures, sketches, fabric swatches and paint
Do we want the archaic, modern or quaint
Earth tone neutrals or vivid bright hues
Choices as varied as various people's views
Stone, wood, marble, or glassy smooth tile
All to reflect our chosen choice of style
Deadlines, inspections, the occasional delay
Experts, real and imagined, all have their say
Chippendale, mission, or Frank Lloyd Wright
From furniture to that well-placed light
Creating vignettes that are sure to inspire--
To meet a desperate need or a persons desire
Balance, harmony, correct traffic flow
Classic, European, which way do we go
We want elegant warmth, a sense of the now
A place that surrounds you with a subtle "wow"
An oasis of peace in a world gone awry
A drink of hope for the thirsty one's cry
But its just a building until the Lord meets you there
And remodels our lives through the penitent's prayer
His church must reflect the hearts of His own,
With integrity, unity, and good stewardship shown
Yes, you'll come for the beauty that these walls impart
But you'll leave with the peace of God in your heart.
So let us create a truly fabulous space--
That will reflect His love and His grace!!
Patricia L. Eby
Although this process has taken longer than any of us may have projected, the words of Pat's poem are so true: So let us create a truly fabulous space that will reflect His love and His grace. This building will be a tool God will use to make himself known to many.
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February 14, 2008
