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Microsoft October 31, 2015 Volume XXXXX1, No 11 the Herald Inside this issue: Lant’s Lines 2 Christian Educator/ Thanksgiving Praise 4 Youth News/ Hanging of the Greens 5 Bazaar 6 Luncheon/Baby Shower 7 Mission Project 8 Calendar 9 Church Happenings 10 Lant’s Lines For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. Jeremiah 29:11 (NRSV) Please allow me this opportunity to update the congregation and our extended circle of friends on developments concerning repair and renovation of the sanctu- ary. (The following is a brief summary. Informational and decisional meetings for the congregation are planned later, when the contours of the plan are clearer.) One component of Central’s current strategic plan, adopted near the end of 2014, was to begin planning for the renovation of the sanctuary. Since 2007-08, when we engaged Arsee Engineers to perform an analysis of the soundness of the sanctuary, we had known that there were some structural issues involving the roof trusses. The trusses had “relaxed” since the time they were constructed, and this had imparted lateral force at the top of the north and south walls of the sanctuary, causing them to lean outward at the top. At the time Arsee thought that this movement had probably happened decades ago, as the truss timbers gradually lost their moisture content, and that the walls now were stable. Even so, a few substantial repairs were recommended the next time we worked on the roof. This year, before engaging the architects for the planned sanctuary renovation, the session wisely decided to ask Arsee Engineers to repeat their measurements of the sanctuary walls, in order to confirm that there were no new structural issues with the trusses and the walls. When the latest measurements were compared to the earlier ones, they showed that the walls have moved more than Arsee would have expected—and enough that Arsee now recommends extensive repairs to the roof trusses and the walls themselves. Moreover, we are advised that the most critical of these repairs cannot be postponed. Indeed, we are monitoring the walls on a monthly basis so that we can see immediately if the walls have con- tinued to move. So far, they have not. And no one has advised to stop using the building. In broad outlines, Arsee recommends (a) that the roof trusses be tightened with shims and additional bolts and that the feet of the roof trusses be connected (through the sanctuary) with steel tie-rods so that they cannot “relax” any farther and (b) that the north and south transept walls be rebuilt, from the top down to the level of the sanctuary floor. This would include removing, refurbishing, and reinstalling the large stained glass windows in the north and south transepts. Since we are nearing the end of the expected life of our roof shingles, and since the truss repair may actually damage the (continued on page 2)

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Page 1: Nov. 15 Herald

Microsoft

October 31, 2015

Volume XXXXX1,

No 11

the Herald

Inside this issue:

Lant’s Lines 2

Christian Educator/

Thanksgiving Praise

4

Youth News/

Hanging of the

Greens

5

Bazaar 6

Luncheon/Baby

Shower

7

Mission Project 8

Calendar 9

Church Happenings 10

Lant’s Lines

For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for your welfare and not

for harm, to give you a future with hope. Jeremiah 29:11 (NRSV)

Please allow me this opportunity to update the congregation and our extended

circle of friends on developments concerning repair and renovation of the sanctu-

ary. (The following is a brief summary. Informational and decisional meetings for

the congregation are planned later, when the contours of the plan are clearer.)

One component of Central’s current strategic plan, adopted near the end of

2014, was to begin planning for the renovation of the sanctuary. Since 2007-08,

when we engaged Arsee Engineers to perform an analysis of the soundness of the

sanctuary, we had known that there were some structural issues involving the

roof trusses. The trusses had “relaxed” since the time they were constructed,

and this had imparted lateral force at the top of the north and south walls of the

sanctuary, causing them to lean outward at the top. At the time Arsee thought

that this movement had probably happened decades ago, as the truss timbers

gradually lost their moisture content, and that the walls now were stable. Even so, a few substantial repairs were recommended the next time we worked on the

roof.

This year, before engaging the architects for the planned sanctuary renovation, the

session wisely decided to ask Arsee Engineers to repeat their measurements of

the sanctuary walls, in order to confirm that there were no new structural issues

with the trusses and the walls. When the latest measurements were compared to

the earlier ones, they showed that the walls have moved more than Arsee would

have expected—and enough that Arsee now recommends extensive repairs to

the roof trusses and the walls themselves. Moreover, we are advised that the

most critical of these repairs cannot be postponed. Indeed, we are monitoring

the walls on a monthly basis so that we can see immediately if the walls have con-

tinued to move. So far, they have not. And no one has advised to stop using the

building.

In broad outlines, Arsee recommends (a) that the roof trusses be tightened with

shims and additional bolts and that the feet of the roof trusses be connected

(through the sanctuary) with steel tie-rods so that they cannot “relax” any farther

and (b) that the north and south transept walls be rebuilt, from the top down to

the level of the sanctuary floor. This would include removing, refurbishing, and

reinstalling the large stained glass windows in the north and south transepts.

Since we are nearing the end of the expected life of our roof shingles, and since

the truss repair may actually damage the (continued on page 2)

Page 2: Nov. 15 Herald

roof, we are advised that we need to replace the roof, as well. This is the minimum work recom-

mended by Arsee. Since there is some moisture migrating into the walls through the porous brick,

they also suggest that, at some point—either now or in the future—we remove the outside layer of

brick and replace it with new brick and mortar that is more resistant to moisture. If we do that

work, then it makes sense “while we are there” to refurbish the other stained glass windows.

Arsee Engineers have advised that only a few contractors in Indiana have enough experience with

buildings of this age and type to be recommended for this work. They gave us the names of three

such contractors; and we asked all three, after an on-site meeting at the church, to provide an esti-

mate of the cost of the work. The two lowest estimates were almost identical; the third estimate

was higher. Based on the cost estimates of the lowest-cost contractor (who is well-recommended),

Schmidt Associates, our architects, have added estimated “soft” costs and contingencies and have

provided total project estimates, as follows, for different possible scopes of the project:

“Base” (all the work Arsee says is necessary right now, including the truss repair work, the re-

construction of the north and south transept walls, the refurbishment of the large stained

glass windows in the north and south transepts, new roof, and repainting the interior of the

sanctuary) -- $1,910,489.

“Base plus brick and windows” (all of the work included in the “Base,” plus re-bricking one layer

around the north, south, and west ends of the sanctuary and refurbishing the rest of the

stained glass windows that need work) -- $2,956,814.

“Full Renovation” (all of the work included in “Base plus brick and windows,” plus some archi-

tectural re-working of the sanctuary itself, mainly in the choir and chancel area and the

pews) -- $3,410,772.

“New Church” (the estimated cost of constructing a new church of the same size (area) and of

good architectural quality. The per-square-foot cost estimates are based on actual costs of

constructing a Lutheran church recently built in one of the northern suburbs of Indianapo-

lis—“nice, but not luxurious.” The estimate does NOT include any cost for the land.) --

$6,240,000.

After these estimates were received, the session asked that we inquire with Arsee Engineers wheth-

er they see any problems with the building’s foundations. They have reviewed the foundations in

the past and did not raise any major issues, but the session wants to guard against spending a lot of

money on repairs and renovations unless we have some level of comfort (although there is no such

thing as a guaranty) that the foundations are adequate. We are waiting to hear from Arsee, who

may suggest additional inspections of the foundations.

The contractor may be able to do some work on the roof trusses while we are still using the sanc-

tuary. However, at some point the congregation will need to move out of the sanctuary for about

six months, as it will be too dangerous (and messy) for us to use the sanctuary while the two tran-

sept walls are being demolished and rebuilt. We are currently exploring possibilities for worship-

ping temporarily in buildings near the church.

The session and its committees—Facilities, Interpretation and Support, and Finance—have been

working diligently to formulate plans for addressing the current situation. It’s very clear that we will

need to have a capital campaign soon. We would like to make initial requests before the end of this

year so that persons wanting to take advantage of 2015 tax deductions could go ahead and make

their initial gifts. During the last renovation, the congregation’s capital campaign (occurring as the

Page 2 the Hera ld

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Page 3

Volume XXXXX1,

Holiday Bazaar 2015

November 6— doors open at 5:30 p.m.

Dinner served at 6:15 p.m.

Join your Central Presbyterian Church family on Friday night for a delicious din-

ner (for those who already have tickets) prepared by our own church cooks and an

opportunity to preview and purchase bazaar items before the doors open to the

general public on Saturday. This will be an evening of fun and fellowship.

November 7 — 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Bake Shoppe Book Shoppe

Craft Shoppe Café

Gently Used Household Items

stock market was approaching its recessional low point) brought in pledges of about $800,000 over a

three-year period. If we offer church members the option of paying pledges over a five-year period,

and if the stock market will behave, we hope to improve on this amount in a new capital campaign.

The church has about $250,000 in savings that we have been accumulating in anticipation of the sanc-

tuary renovation. We probably will have to incur some long-term construction debt, but debt needs

to be minimized. Even a $250,000, 20-year mortgage loan will require about $1,500 in debt service

each month ($18,000 a year in comparison to a current annual budget of about $350,000). We cer-

tainly cannot allow the church to incur so much debt that it is unable to accomplish any ministry!

We are exploring possibilities for obtaining grants to help with the project. If we apply, the Center

for Congregations, who have helped us so much in the past, may be willing to provide a “resource”

grant of up to $15,000 to help in paying architectural fees. We are just beginning to learn about the

possibility of applying for a grant of up to $50,000 from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources;

this would require us to apply for, and be accepted to, listing on the National Register of Historic

Places. (Are you a grant writer? We need your help!)

Anyone can see that we have our work cut out for us. I am confident, however, that if God wants us to be in ministry in this place, and if we are faithful to our mission as disciples of Jesus, the resources

necessary will become available. Please stand by for updates, and pray for God’s guidance—for our

church and for each of us as we consider our part in the plans.

Page 4: Nov. 15 Herald

Page 4

Volume XXXXX1,

Thanksgiving Sing Praise

In recognition of the Thanksgiving season, several churches of the Wabash Valley are

coming together to plan a community Thanksgiving Sing Praise service. Several choirs,

including our own High Ground Men’s Chorus, from area churches will share their

musical gifts in addition to the traditional hymns that are sung. To create this time of

community worship, we need you — the community — to join us and lift your voices

in praise. This special service will be on Sunday, November 8 at 3:00—4:30 pm at First Bap-

tist Church. The Psalmist wrote: I come to your altar, O Lord, singing a song of thanksgiving and

telling of all your wonders (Psalm 26:6b-7). Join in on November 9th as we sing a common song

of thanksgiving and gratitude and as we share the wonders of the Lord’s blessings.

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION REPORT - Cheryl Moles, Christian Educator

Sunday School meets every Sunday at 9:30 am. There are classes for all ages with child care

available from 9:15 to 11:45 am. Infants to 2 year olds – Nursery room 101; 3 to 5 year olds – Pre-

school room 108; Kindergarten – 2nd grade – room 202; 3rd thru 5th grades – Room 103; Middle School – Room 200; High School and Adults have an intergenerational “Let’s Discuss…” group –

FH Classroom C; Adult Classes are: Study of the Book of Confessions – FH Classroom B; Chris-

tian Parenting – FH Classroom A.

The family prayer group meets on Mondays at 11:00 am at the church. Lunch is served ONLY

on the 2nd Monday of each month. Childcare is provided.

The next Parents’ Night Out/Youth Movie Night will be December 4. It will be combined

with the Youth Group Princess Party/Boys’ Night. Children age 4 and older will be with the special

events until 9:00 pm or overnight as you desire. Children younger than 4 years will be at Central

with the Nursery staff from 5:30 – 9:00 pm. Please let the office know if your child(ren) will be at-

tending. There is not a PNO in November due to the Bazaar.

T3EM is November 17. Supper and childcare will be provided by the CN Commission. There is

not T3EM in December, although some commissions and committees may meet.

Lunch and special program on November 8

There have been several requests for a program from the Christ and Haan families to share their

sabbatical experiences of the past year. Christian Nurture Committee invites you to a carry-in

lunch on November 8 following worship to hear about the Christ’s year in Germany and the

Haan’s time in China. Please bring a dish to share. This will be a true carry-in meal; no meat is

provided. There will be drinks and table service available.

Bible Sunday is November 15. Our first grade and sixth grade students will receive Bibles. Eve-

ryone is invited to sign the Bibles on Nov. 8 so that they are truly a gift from the congregation.

Hanging of the Greens will be on Wednesday evening, December 2. Supper will be served at

5:30 with decorating from 6:00 to 7:00 followed by a brief dedication.

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Volume XXXXX1,

SEVENTH CENTS YOUTH GROUP

Upcoming Youth Events:

November 2: Bible study at Central November 6: Central’s Craft Bazaar The Youth will assist in serving lunch at Central’s Craft Bazaar. For those youth who are helping with the Bazaar luncheon, please be at Central by 11:00 a.m. We plan to be finished by 1:30 p.m. November 6: Rake and Run! Please be at Central at 1:30 p.m. (directly following the Bazaar Lunch). We will be finished approximately at 5:00 p.m.

Everyone is welcome to join the fun

of decorating our church building

for Advent and Christmas

Wednesday, December 2

Supper served 5:30 – 6:00 pm

Decorating 6:00 – 7:00 pm

(Childcare for youngest children)

Dedication Service 7:00 – 7:15 pm

Page 6: Nov. 15 Herald

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Central Presbyterian Church Annual Holiday Bazaar

Friday, November 6th

Once again we will provide a delicious dinner prepared

by Presbyterian women to kick-off the bazaar week-

end. Make sure you contact the CPC office by

Wednesday if you don’t have your reservation yet.

Doors will open at 5:30 and serving begins at 6:15. You won’t want to

miss early shopping opportunities and special Friday Fun. Joyce Cook

will entertain us with her Heads or Tails game. Many will want her fabu-

lous door prize, but only one will be the winner!

Saturday, November 7th

Start your morning at the all-you-can-eat-breakfast from 8:00 – 10:00. After that,

check out the bargain books, gently used household items, baked goods and

crafts. Lunch time shoppers can grab a bite at the Kitchen Café and shop for

bargains too!

Baked Goods Needed

Do you have a family

secret pie recipe? How about a special

cake you like to make? What about

some peanut butter fudge? The Bake

Shoppe at the Bazaar needs your good-

ies. You may start bringing your baked

goods to the church on

Friday starting at noon.

All donations accepted

and appreciated.

Page 7: Nov. 15 Herald

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All-Saint’s Banner – Sunday November 1 During the Sunday School/gathering hour

on Sunday, November 1, the Worship

Commission will create a ribbon-banner

for All-Saint’s Sunday. On this day when

we especially remember those in our

Congregation who have entered the

Church Triumphant in the past year, we

invite you to remember those who have

been a part of your life by attaching a rib-

bon to the banner. You may write their

names on the ribbons to name the people

of God whose lives have become entan-

gled with yours and have helped you

along the journey of faith. These may be

ancient or contemporary saints, as you

will. The banner will be carried into the

Sanctuary as a reminder that we are all

united in the cloud of saints.

CLCA is planning

a baby shower on

November 15th,

to welcome Jack

William Darke

into our church

family. It will be

held during the fellowship hour follow-

ing the service.

If you would like to bring a gift or card

for baby Jack, there will be a table set

up in the fellowship hall to receive

them.

LUNCH AND PROGRAM ON NOVEMBER 8

A Carry-In lunch will be held on Sunday, November 8

immediately following worship. Please bring a dish

to share. Table service and drinks will be provided.

Following lunch, the Christ and Haan families will tell of their sabbatical experiences of last

year. Kevin, Beth, Peter and Caroline Christ lived in Ulm, Germany and Kevin taught at Ulm

University of Applied Sciences. Fred, Julie, Lucas, Katie and Emily Haan had an adventure liv-

ing in Beijing, China as Fred taught at Beihang University. Come and relax after a weekend

with the Bazaar activities to hear the favorite memories of these families.

Page 8: Nov. 15 Herald

Page 8

Volume XXXXX1,

Cemetery gravesites available. The

church office has become aware of three

gravesites in Roselawn Memorial Park that

are available for purchase from a private

seller. Contact Marcia McKibben: (812)

232-7207.

Page 9: Nov. 15 Herald

November 2015 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1 Choir 8:45

Sunday school 9:30

Worship 10:30

Youth Group 5:00

Mary Symon

2 Family Prayer Group

11:00

3 4 Bazaar Crafters

10:00

Deacons 5:30

Youth Design Team

6:30

Madeline Whitaker

5

Renee Newton, Alex

Pepperworth, Violet

Templeton

6 Bazaar preview and

dinner 6:00

Murray Pate

7 Holiday Bazaar

8:00—3:00

8 Choir 8:45

Sunday school 9:30

Worship 10:30

Carry-in luncheon 11:30

9 Family Prayer Group

11:00

Charles Rubey

10 Nominating Commit-

tee 4:30

11 Session meet 7:00

Eli Kofi Aba

12 Women’s Book Club

@ Davis house 7:00

John Cleveland,

Claire Mang, Susan

Moulton

13

Buddy Berry

14

15C hoir 8:45

Sunday school 9:30

Worship 10:30

Aspen Kershaw

16 Family Prayer Group

11:00

Matt Guell

17 Seekers & Searchers Bible Study 10:00

T3EM meal & childcare

5:15

Commission/Committees meet

18

Jean Wilkinson

19

Eliza Payne

20

Kathy Mellor

21

Xander Green, Josh

Powers, Linda Shaw

22 Choir 8:45

Sunday school 9:30

Worship 10:30

Gary Jenkins

23 Family Prayer

Group 11:00

24

Erin Lucas

25 Personnel Commit-

tee meet 12:30

26 Office closed. 27 Office closed.

Yae Eun Kim

28

Agnes Moles, Eileen

Whalen

29 Choir 8:45

Sunday school 9:30

Worship 10:30

Keith Hawkins

30 Family Prayer

Group 11:00

Emmanuel Aouad

Page 9

Page 10: Nov. 15 Herald

This little birdie is

here to remind you it’s

time to “Fall Back”.

Please set your clock

back one hour before

going to bed on Satur-

day, October 31.

Primary Business Address

Address Line 2

Address Line 3

Address Line 4

Phone: 555-555-5555

Fax: 555-555-5555

Email: [email protected]

Sunday School for all ages 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.

Rev. Lant B. Davis, Pastor

Cheryl Moles, Christian Educator

Scott Paul-Bonham, Parish Associate

Sarah Kelsheimer, Church Secretary

Women’s Bible Study

The Women’s Bible Study

will meet on November 17

at 10:00 a.m. at the

church. Mary Horneker

will lead the discussion on

Session 9 (Michal) of Bad

Girls of the Bible and What

We can Learn from Them

by Liz Curtis Higgs. Susan

Hoffman will be the host-

ess.

Women’s Book Club

The Women’s Book Club

will be meeting on Novem-

ber 5 at 7:00 at the church.

The book to be discussed is

Orphan Trainby Christina

Kline. Alice Harder will

lead the discussion on this

book.

Church Happenings

Business Tagline or Motto

Next Herald

Deadline —

November 23, 2015