Upgrades to the Sanctuary

Our building is over one hundred years old.  It's very interesting to discover some of its hidden secrets!  

One of the not-so-hidden secrets is that the sanctuary is quite reverberant.  This was likely great in the days before microphones and speakers, since that was the only way to make sure that folks in the back could hear the preacher. But technology has changed a lot of things, including how we hear and the devices created to assist us.  

Over the years there have been calls for something to be done.  Microphones and speakers can help, but can also create their own problems. Sometimes it has been difficult to hear clearly because of the natural reverberation whithin the space.

Recently we brought in Stephen Heal from Acoustics West Manufacturing to assess the room, and provide some solutions.  This week he and his crew installed a number of sound absorbant panels on the walls of the sanctuary, and we look forward to appreciating the benefits of their work.  These are the light gray panels in the pictures.  Thanks to Stephen and crew for a great job!   (Update a few weeks in:  The change has been remarkable!  Folks are commenting on how much easier it is to hear.  Even the singing is sounding more angelic!)

Over the past couple weeks another project has been completed.  One of our creative carpenter-types built handrails to assist in climbing the steps on to the raised platform at the front.  They are beautiful, and are also visible in the pictures.  Thanks Bruce for your labour of love!