Building for Tomorrow

LCEF Art and Architecture Award

2008-10-29T12:23:00.001-07:00

And I thought there was nothing else to write about . . .

Today we received a special mailing from LCEF (Lutheran Church Extension Fund) informing us that we are the recipient of the 2008 Triennial LCEF Art and Architecture LCMS Educational Facility - Large Award for the expansion of our church and school facility.

The letter went on to say, "the award jury recognizes and commends your outstanding achievement in religious art and architecture in the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. The jurors were particularly impressed with the completeness of the design and the successful execution of the design concept through the entire project. Your achievement will stand as an example and encouragement for others in the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod to purse excellence in religious art and architecture in the construction and adornment of church and school facilities."

To God be the Glory!

Courtyard and Garden

2008-09-30T14:30:00.000-07:00

One of the quiet places on campus is the new garden courtyard between the existing school building and the new fellowship hall. Marty Thomas has done a wonderful job landscaping the space so that over time we will have a wonderful garden space. A large portion of the space is covered and the benches donated in 1994 by Jane and the late Robert Schoen have found a new home.

Youth Room

2008-09-30T14:09:00.000-07:00

The "coolest" space in the new building is the youth room. This state-of-the-art room has plenty of space for our youth (junior high and high school) to live and learn. The new furniture will be arriving later this week and use of the space will begin. High end AV means our youth can watch moves (projection TV), play Wii on the 60 inch flat screen, or just listen to music (a very nice JBL system). The room has a warm "warehouse" feel and promises to be the "coolest" room on campus. No adults allowed!

Infant Wing

2008-09-30T13:47:00.000-07:00

The newly designed infant wing offers clean and colorful spaces for learning and development. The five classrooms are for our youngest children (six weeks to twenty-four months). The space also includes both indoor and outdoor play spaces.

Music Room

2008-09-30T13:44:00.000-07:00

The main music practice room is allowing for the continued expansion of our growing music program (choirs, handbells, orchestra, band, etc.) The strong A-frame windows bring back the rhythm of the original sanctuary (over which the new music room sits). The lighting and acoustics make this a marvelous space for learning and living the church's song.

Covered Walk

2008-09-30T13:39:00.000-07:00

One very nice addition is a covered drop-off located on the west side of the sanctuary. Through the years we have often been left out in the rain (people sprinting into the sanctuary or walking in slow procession with a casket to the hearse). How nice to have a space where we can load and unload and move between building without being out in rain.

Fellowship Hall

2008-09-30T11:24:00.000-07:00

The fellowship hall is the "nicest" addition to new facilities. This formal space is quickly becoming the gathering space for study, food, and fellowship. As a space that we haven't had in the recent past, this hall offers the ability to host large and small events for the congregation and community.

Commons

2008-09-30T11:21:00.001-07:00

Here is a picture of the completed church commons. This is a gathering area before and after services for coffee and fellowship. The commons has already been the place of a funeral visitation and a wedding reception.

New Photos

2008-09-30T05:37:00.000-07:00

Our architect, Ziegler Cooper, has provided us with wonderful photos of the exterior and interior of the new building. Here is an early morning view of the music room and the main school entrance which attaches the new building into the existing building.

Post Ike Update

2008-09-23T13:39:00.000-07:00

We weathered the storm at the church and school. We sustained only minimal damage when compared with others in the neighborhood. Some roof leaking, one down tree, a broken brick wall, and a few others bits were all we saw. All in all we were very luck. The only damage to the new building was a bit of water that came under a door (from the heavy winds) which has ruined some base boards. Thanks be to God. He has spared us and granted us life and salvation.

Where is Your Treasure?

2008-09-20T10:13:00.000-07:00

After the dedication I was approached by one person who thanked me for my forthright remarks. They commented that they were impressed that I spoke, on the day of the dedication, about the building wearing out over the years, perhaps even being destroyed through the ravages of time (as were our old buildings). When we started the building process I shared the words below with the congregation. I think them appropriate again as we have weathered IKE but still remained focused on the heart of the gospel and not the things of this world.

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” — Matthew 6:19-21

I recently had the privilege of speaking at the Salem Lutheran Ladies Retreat in Gretna, Louisiana. As the ladies began to arrive the stories about “it” began to spill out. (Katrina is now referred to as “it” by many locals.) The stories came quickly, the next seemingly worse than the one before. As we began the retreat and introductions started each lady was asked to say something good about “it”. While some struggled to find anything good to say, many gave great and awesome testimony to the gracious protection and loving kindness of the Lord.

There was a lot said about the “stuff” of this world. The treasures, as Jesus would say, that we have laid up on earth, which fade away or are destroyed. One woman, who had lost much, made the most profound statement of the entire retreat. “All of this stuff keeps us fixed on the earth rather than keeping our eyes and lives fixed on heaven. Having all the stuff taken away allows you to fix your eyes heavenward, on Jesus.”

The “stuff” of this world often stands between us and our Lord. We spend our whole lives in a ravenous race to collect wealth and riches which only make us more deeply rooted in this world. Good things created by our Lord have been marred by sin, death, and the devil so that what was meant to serve the creator has itself become our god. How we love the “stuff” of this world. We can’t imagine that we could ever live without the “stuff” we have and the “stuff” we don’t have we sinfully covet and desire.

In the coming month the church and school will embark on a capital campaign to expand our campus. I must admit my excitement over the proposals that are being considered. As various committees do their specialized work the overall plan continues to grow together into one glorious creation. There is no doubt, the new and renovated spaces being proposed would be glorious.

But “stuff” is still “stuff” even if it belongs to the church. Certainly we bless and set apart those earthly things that are used in service to our Lord but that doesn’t lessen our ability to place our hope and trust in such earthly treasures that too will spoil and fade. While new buildings, signage, and landscape may all look glorious, they are not worth comparing to our true hope of glory: Christ in us. If our development plans move forward with the hope of making our earthly dwelling more appealing or comfortable then we have missed the point (and the gospel!).

Driving through the neighborhoods of New Orleans was devastating. Seeing block after block of abandoned neighborhoods is indescribable. Clinging to faith one can only confess with Job, “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised!” When our earthly “stuff” is taken away we feel stripped, naked, vulnerable and abandoned. But such things can happen to us. New Orleans was not singled out to be punished because of their sin. Rather, all creation continues to suffer under the devastating power of sin, groaning as in the pains of childbirth (Rom 8:22) right up to the present time.

Under the theme “For Tomorrow” we look forward to bettering our facilities but always with a purpose much greater than brick and mortar. Whatever we build must be to the glory of God for the purpose of expanding His kingdom on earth. Whatever we renovate and remodel must be done for the ultimate purpose of proclaiming the gospel and bringing the life-saving sacraments to those in need. We dare not store up treasures on earth, which can be taken away in blink of an eye.

“For Tomorrow” we provide a place of refuge for those who need so desperately to hear and receive Christ in Word and Sacrament. “For Tomorrow” we provide a place where our children learn to confess the faith given them in Holy Baptism. “For Tomorrow” we provide a welcoming space where those wearied from the sinful world come, and for the very first time, hear that their sins are forgiven for the sake of Christ. “For Tomorrow!”

And then, when what is made with human hands spoils and fades (and it will), we have lost nothing. For all that we have really done is store up treasures in heaven, which will never be taken away.

Final Payout

2008-09-18T14:13:00.001-07:00

On Thursday morning (pre IKE) we sat down and signed the paperwork for the final payout to Fretz Construction. Present were architect Paul Lodholz, building committee chairman Ed Jutzi, captial campaign chairman Bob Harvey, and congregation president Wayne Murray. A huge thank-you to these men for their faithful and loving service throughout the project.

Singing in the Space!

2008-09-09T08:44:00.000-07:00

As the afternoon came to an end we gathered in the new music room to "sing in the space." The hand bells and children led us and we joined our voices in song to the Lord. What a marvelous facility in which to sing God's praise.

The People of God

2008-09-09T08:38:00.001-07:00

The day was really about the people of God. What a tremendous crowd that attended the dedication service. It is wonderful to see our members excited about the life and ministry of our church and school. I pray that this enthusiasm will continue as we work to spread the gospel to the very ends of the earth.

Kudos Mr. Harvey

2008-09-09T08:34:00.000-07:00

Mr. Bob Harvey shared a few words with the group as part of the dedication festivities. Bob has faithfully guided the congregation through the financial maze of the project. He has done a tremendous job working with congregation committees as well as Amegy Bank. Bob deserves a hearty thank-you for his time and dedication to this project.

Ribbon Cutting!

2008-09-09T08:28:00.000-07:00

Sunday afternoon was the ribbon cutting for the new building. It was a glorious afternoon filled with festivities and activities. We had a special dedication service (Matins) at 2 PM with our guest preacher Rev. Daniel Preus of the Luther Academy. With readings and hymns we rejoiced in the gospel and the new opportunity the Lord is giving us with this new space. To God be the Glory!

Dedication Today!

2008-09-07T06:11:00.001-07:00

This afternoon at 2 PM we will dedicate our new facilities to the glory of God for the purpose of proclaiming the gospel to the ends of the earth. Rev. Daniel Preus will be our guest preacher. Immediately following the service will be various building activities: ribbon cutting, short remarks from several members, tours, and light refreshments.

Later in the day KKHT (100.7 FM) will be airing live from the new commons. Please come by today and help us celebrate this special moment in the life of our church and school.

Final Aerial

2008-09-04T12:32:00.000-07:00

We have received the final aerial view of the work site. It is amazing how much the space has been transformed over the last ten months. We continue to great reviews about our new Westheimer face. The new sign, parking, and landscape have really opened us up to the neighborhood. People know we are here and they are stopping by the check us out.

New Infant Room

2008-08-28T15:46:00.001-07:00

Ever wonder what a new infant room looks like when it is set up and ready for school . . . here is Ms. Hewitt's infant classroom ready for the first day of school. This room will also serve as the church nursery on Sunday mornings.

Indoor Play Space

2008-08-28T15:43:00.001-07:00

In the infant wing of the new building (the west end) the indoor play ground is slowly taking shape. It will be great to have a place for the youngest children to play without having to be outdoors in the heat. Another small perk to the glorious new facility.

Remodeled Classrooms

2008-08-28T15:40:00.000-07:00

Wonder what a newly remodel classroom looks like when it is finally set up and ready for school . . . here is Ms. Engler's Kindergarten classroom ready for the first day of class. The remodeled spaces are wonderful and parents and children alike are delight about their new rooms.

MLS Library

2008-08-28T15:36:00.000-07:00

As I have said before, one of the benefits of the new facility is that a number of previously "shared" spaces are no long multi-use. The MLS library has been set up for bible class use for the last several years. No more. With new bible class spaces we have been able to purchase new library shelves and arrange the room for better use of the space. Ms. Hall, the librarian, is very excited about her updated room.

TV Monitors

2008-08-28T15:30:00.000-07:00

One of the many cool things in the new building is the use of TV monitors to constantly display church and school news and information. The picture is of the monitor in the church commons. There are two other monitors: one at the school office entrance and the other at the entrance of the new classroom wing.

A funny story. "Sparky" the electrician was back on site working today. When I asked why he was back he said there was a little problem with the outlets for the TV monitors. When they were installed a couple days ago the company had to remove two of the monitors because they were "broken" (at least that is what they said.) What I found out this morning was that "Sparky" didn't wire the outlets with the right voltage and so two TV monitors got "fried" when they were plugged in and turned on. Makes me glad that I am not an electrician.

Piano

2008-08-28T15:10:00.000-07:00

A piano (previously in the sanctuary) has a new home in the fellowship hall. The picture gives you a good feel for the size of the space. The piano will certainly find use in the fellowship hall as we sing the Word of God. The other piano in the sanctuary is now in the music room. The other piano on campus (it was at Lutheran High North for safe keeping this past year) has now returned to the sanctuary. It is like musical chairs only the chairs got bigger.

Acoustic Panels

2008-08-28T15:05:00.000-07:00

The music room has received a few acoustic panels to help with the sound bouncing between the walls. Too much echo is never a good thing. Actually Cantor Muth has just gotten the biggest bulletin board in the school. A large duBois image would sure look good!

Out for Summer

2008-08-16T05:50:00.000-07:00

We closed the school down on Friday, meaning we will have no students on campus for the next two weeks as we make the final move and set up the new and renovated spaces. The school now has five new classrooms (smallest children), the new music suite, seven remodeled classrooms (K-5 and Latin), plus several spaces dedicated for new use (science lab, library, and art). All this new space could not have come at a better time.

MLS registration was this past week and the school continues to grow. Enrollment has increased 33 students which will put us around 260 students this school year. Most exciting is that our Early Childhood program is full (we technically have a few spaces open in Pre-K but not for long). This means that our lower grades will continue to grow too (K-1st both have 18 students this year and could add one or two more). The Lord has richly blessed us and is giving us a wonderful opportunity to share the gospel. And the new buildings do matter . . . many families are coming to visit because they have seen the work happening on our campus and are curious to see who we are and what we are about. The Lord is opening the doors so that the little children might come in. May we rejoice in these gifts and faithfully take up the tasks before us.

Wyatt Working!

2008-08-15T06:54:00.000-07:00

It is a rare occasion but early this week we did catch Wyatt doing a little manual labor. While hanging school bulletin boards might not seem like a big job . . . somebody had to do it and most of the real workers have already finished up and moved on!

Without jest we do commend Wyatt for all of his time and efforts in overseeing our project. We could not have had a better man on the job!

Appliances Installed

2008-08-15T06:46:00.000-07:00

Several new appliances have been installed in the school wing of the new building. Each classroom has a new refrigerator and the maintenance closet has a large washer and dryer to take care of various school needs.

New Chairs

2008-08-15T06:44:00.000-07:00

The new chairs for the fellowship hall (and a few other spaces in the new building) are currenlty stacked in the fellowship hall. The color of the fabric is very nice as it picks up the colors in the carpet.

Painted Cross

2008-08-15T05:27:00.001-07:00

A few days after installation the three little crosses received paint to help them match the rest of the metal trim and window crosses around the building. The crosses are a wonderful addition to the large brick plain. There are several other brick locations around the building without such sculpture/artwork. The hope is that in the near future additional sculpture and artwork might be found in/on the building.

Three Little Crosses

2008-08-09T05:53:00.001-07:00

The outside of the building has received one of the finishes touches: three crosses. The crosses are on the large brick wall just west of the (A-frame shaped) music room windows. The crosses are visible from Bering and also mark the school entrance. Another small touch to a beautiful building.

Tables and Chairs

2008-08-09T05:49:00.000-07:00

At 8 AM on Thursday morning a large delivery of tables and chairs arrived. Thanks to all of the faculty and staff who helped with the move.

The fellowship hall received 250 new chairs and the church library received new tables. As the furniture and furnishings continue to arrive (almost daily) the building is become more and more like home. I know that excitement is growing as the day of dedication approaches. Please remember to join us on Sunday, September 7 @ 2 PM as we dedicate the building and begin a new chapter in our history.

Make a Joyful Noise

2008-08-09T05:46:00.000-07:00

On Thursday the new choir risers arrived and so the music room is taking shape. What a joy to have a wonderful new space for our continually growing music program. May the Lord bless the proclamation of the Word through instrument and voice.

One More Move for Old Glory

2008-08-09T05:40:00.001-07:00

The flag pole has finally made it to its permanent home. Over the last months the flag pole has been moved a few times around the campus. Originally the flag pole set outside the west side-door of the school (near Macaroni Grill). This was not a visible place on the campus and so often the flag was overlooked. During construction we had the pole moved to the north side of the building near the playground. The cub scouts took turns raising and lowering the flag throughout the school year. The new construction calls for the pole to be in one of the parking islands in front of the school building and gymnasium. We are glad that Old Glory has a new home and a place of prominence on the campus.

Trash Hidden

2008-08-09T05:37:00.000-07:00

The enclosure for the trash dumpster is now complete. While the trash company won't like having to open and close the gate it will be very nice to have it hidden away. Maybe the neighborhood folks will stop using it now!

Fence

2008-07-30T10:50:00.001-07:00

The wooden fence has been installed between the new building and Macaroni Grill. This helps with sound and foot traffic between our properties. Most significant is the increased security it offers school children. There is still a large double-gate between the properties so that large items can enter.

Asphalt Work Begins

2008-07-30T10:32:00.000-07:00

Early this morning they started laying asphalt in the front parking lot. The plan, if the weather cooperates, is that the parking lots will be installed and painted before church on Sunday. Parking installation means that the project is quickly coming to an end. Thanks be to God. He does all things well.

Landscape Complete

2008-07-30T10:29:00.000-07:00

The landscape work is now complete. I cannot believe how much the grass and planting tie the buildings together and make the campus feel like home. A huge thank you to Marty Thomas for all of her time and efforts in bringing this part of the project to completion. Let the watering begin!

Garden Counrt

2008-07-30T10:25:00.000-07:00

The garden courtyard, between the old and new building, is developing into a wonderful "quiet" spot on campus. The back portion is covered and so affords some shade. In this area we will place some of the benches that lined the sidewalk approaching the sanctuary. As the planting matures this will be once of the nicest spots on campus.

Welcome to MLCS

2008-07-30T10:23:00.000-07:00

The lettering on the Westheimer side of the new building is really wonderful. We have already had families visit the school because they have seen our new "inviting" signs from Westheimer.

Church Entrance

2008-07-30T10:20:00.000-07:00

The front of the sanctuary is taking on a new look. With the old retaining wall gone and everything on the same elevation (new building and sanctuary) there is now a nice flow and feel into the sanctuary.

Fire Doors

2008-07-10T06:46:00.000-07:00

One of the special jobs in the existing school building is placing fire doors in both the downstairs and upstairs hallways. These special doors will be held open by magnetic devices and will then release and close in case of a fire. The doors have been difficult because the door frames wouldn't fit into the jams because of the concrete tilt wall. Everything has been custom cut to fit the openings. This means that Cruz (this is Wyatt's right-hand man, pictured here) has had extra work installing the hardware.

Upstairs Remodel

2008-07-08T11:02:00.000-07:00

This afternoon they have been working on the flooring in the upstairs remodel. They have completed the tile installation in the back portion of the classrooms and are now preparing to lay carpet this afternoon. Once the classrooms are complete they will lay the tile in the hallway.

A Beautiful Wall!

2008-07-08T10:53:00.000-07:00

The handmade tiles (remember the tile painting party several months ago) are being installed on the outside of the classroom wing of the new building. We always knew that they would look good but they look so good that pictures don't do them justice. The bright and vibrant colors bring the building to life. Thanks to everyone who spent time painting tiles.

Streams of Living Water!

2008-07-08T10:49:00.000-07:00

The final touches have been made in the installation of the new drinking fountains in the main school hallway. You may recall (a previous post) that for the past several years the school has used water coolers inside the classrooms (K-4). The new hallway fountains (one on each floor) will allow us stop the delivery of bottled water and the expense of renting coolers.

Remodel Nearly Complete

2008-07-07T17:56:00.000-07:00

The classroom remodel is nearly complete. Today they began painting the walls (the last of the work to be done). If everything stays on schedule the remodel (along with the new building) will be complete this Friday (July 11) and will be ready for move in on Friday, July 18.

Teachers will be reporting back to their classrooms on August 4 which will give us plenty of time to get settled in our new spaces before the start of school on September 2. The Lord has been tremendously generous and our enrollment looks to increase over 25 students in the new year.

Welcome to MLS

2008-07-07T15:38:00.001-07:00

The new front entrance to the school gymnasium and school office is nearly complete. The brick column work was completed last week and the roof gutters were installed today. You will also notice a new brick utility wall that hides the ugly parts of the building (air conditioning units, gas pipe and telephone connections). All that remains is a new sign welcoming everyone to Memorial Lutheran School.

Bathroom Dividers

2008-07-07T15:37:00.001-07:00

The bathrooms are now complete. The final work was done on the bathroom dividers (praise the Lord, if you rememeber the earlier post) this past week.

Signing Out!

2008-06-30T03:55:00.000-07:00

I will be leaving town with the high school youth today for the Higher Things Conference in St. Louis, MO. Unfortunately this means that I won't be able to do any posting this week. I am certain that when I get back into town (Saturday, July 5) many things will have changed (change is happening quickly these days).

The scheduled date for the punch list is July 11 with a completion date of July 19. The remodel might carry on one more week. Wyatt said this morning that the cleaning crew will start work in the building early next week to get ready for July 11.

Can you believe that we broke ground on Sunday, November 11? How the Lord has blessed us these past months.

Awesome

2008-06-30T03:53:00.003-07:00

It only took a few hours on Saturday to lay the carpet in the fellowship hall. It looks awesome. The colors along with the pattern is wonderful. What a great new space for the congregation.

Fellowship Hall Floor

2008-06-28T08:10:00.000-07:00

The carpet installation is now underway in the fellowship hall. This morning I caught the installer laying the very first tiles. Although the room is large they will make quick work of laying the carpet. The fellowship hall has a very nice cross pattern in the floor which is repeated in the wall patterns and windows.

Landscaping Begins

2008-06-28T08:07:00.000-07:00

Today also brings the start of the landscape work. Marty Thomas has done the design and Lamar Kennedy (Kennedy Cuts) is doing the work. It is a wonderful plan that will really bring the buildings to life. The crew has been blessed by the rain over the last days. Working the soil is a bit easier and the landscape should be complete in the next two weeks (along with sprinkler installation).

Post Framing

2008-06-28T08:05:00.000-07:00

This morning (Saturday) they began framing up the load-bearing posts in the remodeled classroom. The MDF will be painted to match the accent color of the room. Another nice detail.

Carpet Tile

2008-06-26T14:52:00.000-07:00

This afternoon they started laying the carpet tiles in the commons and main hallway. This work started because all of the broadloom carpet has been laid (in all the office and classroom spaces). The carpet is going in at an unbelievable speed. I talked with the head installer this afternoon and he says they plan to be finished with the carpet installation on Saturday.

The carpet tiles are beautiful (three different colors on the 1/4 turn with a very nice pattern). This is one of those moments when the building really starts to pull together (light fixtures, paint colors, trim, and door finishes). The color committee (along with the architect) have really done a wonderful job (yes, my wife was on the committee; no, she didn't pay me to say it, nor will it earn me any brownie points at home).

As I watched them I started to think about all the things that will take place in this new space: wedding receptions, anniversary dinners, school concerts, funeral luncheons, etc. The Lord has certainly blessed us these past years. Our decision to stay has kindled in us a deep desire to share the gospel from this place to the very ends of the earth. May the improvements to our earthly home reflect our work in the kingdom that will reap rewards in our heavenly mansion.

MLS Remodel

2008-06-26T11:23:00.000-07:00

The classroom remodel is continuing at high speed. The HVAC was turned on today, the walls are being primed, the lights and cabinets installed. The ceiling tiles will be installed on Friday and the painters are scheduled to begin on Monday along with the floor tile installation. They are certainly making quick work of the remodel.

School Entrance

2008-06-26T11:13:00.000-07:00

The new MLS entrance had the main concrete sidewalk poured early this morning. The new sidewalk, along with the metal roof and covered walk really help the old building look new and improved. On Monday the four columns will be bricked and a sign will be installed. "Let the little children come to Me."

Kitchen FRP

2008-06-26T11:11:00.000-07:00

The kitchen walls have now been covered in FRP which will keep things clean and bright. The appliances are scheduled to arrive for installation early next week.

Carpet Installation

2008-06-26T11:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday (Wednesday) the carpet installation began. They started in the school office. Early this morning they began in the church office complex and will be finished this afternoon. They are planning to begin the installation of the carpet tiles in the main hallway spaces later this afternoon. The finish line is now in plain sight.

New Ceiling

2008-06-23T08:47:00.000-07:00

Today they are working to install the new drop ceiling in the remodeled classrooms. The new ceilings will brighten the space and will also allow for new duct work and lighting.

Kitchen Floor

2008-06-23T08:43:00.000-07:00

On Sunday (if you were around) you smelled the strong odor from the sealing of the kitchen floor. The floor is a special epoxy-resin floor that will wear like iron. It will be safe, clean, and long lasting. Today the FRP is going on the walls and the appliances will be soon to come.

It will be wonderful to have a nice place to gather for food and fellowship. So many groups will be able to make use of the new kitchen. And remember what Pat Hatteberg used to always say: Clean up your mess, your mother doesn't work here!

A-Frame Windows

2008-06-19T11:20:00.000-07:00

The finishing touches have been done around the large A-Frame windows in the music room. It is very nice to have this image of the original sanctuary still on the new campus. It is a reminder of the past as we move into the future.

The proclaiming of the Gospel in Word and Sacraments is the heart and life of all generations. Buildings will come and go but the Word of the Lord remains forever.

Commons Counter

2008-06-19T11:18:00.000-07:00

The counter was installed in the commons early this morning. This will be the counter for coffee, donuts, and other such things on a Sunday morning. As you can see the counter is very long and will give us plenty of space for spreading out (or perhaps collecting more stuff).

Painting the Doors

2008-06-19T11:15:00.000-07:00

The sanctuary doors got a little assistance today with a new paint job. The doors have been worn and weathered for several years and the new paint will certainly help brighten them up again. The old doors facing Westheimer are soon to be replaced which will also help our curb appeal.

Fellowship Hall

2008-06-19T06:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the wood framing was placed around front recess in the fellowship hall. This little detail really formalizes the space and make for a nice accent in the front of the room.

Early Childhood Play Room

2008-06-19T05:55:00.000-07:00

The indoor play area in the new early childhood space is nearing completion. Yesterday they installed the wall for the space. The curved wall will help divide the play space from the entry area. Having an indoor play space for the small children will be wonderful.

MLS New Front

2008-06-19T05:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday saw a lot of work on the new covered walk across the front of the gymnasium. The face-lift to the front of the school building is a much needed improvement.

Metal Wall

2008-06-17T12:11:00.000-07:00

The youth room has another "cool" feature: metal on the lower portion of the wall. The room certainly has a warehouse/loft type feel which is very hip with the kids. The bright colors and projection TV, along with the plasma TV for playing Wii will make this the "coolest" spot on campus.

Coffee Anyone?

2008-06-17T12:08:00.001-07:00

The coffee bar arrived for the youth room today. I know it is hard to think about drinking coffee in the middle of June but kids will drink coffee anytime and anywhere. I think everyone in the church is going to want access to the "youth" room. It is going to be great space to gather for fun and fellowship.

Kitchen Serving Counter

2008-06-17T05:12:00.000-07:00

This week the kitchen serving counter and the surrounding cabinets have been installed. The kitchen is in the back (north side) of the new fellowship hall. Again, the fine wood detail really helps to make the room look great.

MLS Metal Roof

2008-06-17T05:04:00.000-07:00

After a wait of nearly six weeks the work on the school roof has finally started. The metal roof is going to help tie the look of the buildings all together.

With the roof exposed for the last several week we have had fun with the rain. Leaks in the school office (over the copy machine), the gymnasium, the upstairs school hallway, etc have kept everyone on their toes. We will be very happy to have the roof on and the rain out!

Westheimer Entrance Closed

2008-06-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the Westheimer entrance was closed while they cut the road in preparation for a new approach onto the property from Westheimer. The new approach will be considerably wider than the old. This is the last of the drives to be finished and is about the very last of the site work. The parking lots are being framed up and will be ready in the coming weeks. Don't worry you can still enter and exit through the Bering side and the plan is for this entrance to be open by the end of the week (in time for Sunday morning traffic).

MLS Drinking Fountains

2008-06-17T04:56:00.000-07:00

One of the late additions to the MLS remodel is the installation of two new drinking fountains: one on each floor. This wing of the school (with younger children) does not have drinking fountains and so we have been renting water coolers for the last several years. The installation of the fountains will certainly be a cost saver over time. The installation was simple because we used the water and drain lines from the old AC units in the classrooms. The fountains will be recessed into the hallway wall for safe hallway travel. So bring on the Houston heat we will soon have cold water.

The Anxious Bench

2008-06-14T06:57:00.000-07:00

The youth room is also coming together with several more details. On Friday they installed a large window seat (bench) which is covered in red laminate that matches the coffee bar back splash. The plan is to have a special cushion made for the bench (I hope that Julie Zimmerman is reading this: please help us!). You will also notice a wall piece that will be nice for siting drinks, etc. I am very excited that we are giving our youth a special place of their own. How great it will be to see them gather (throughout the week) to share in study and fellowship.

Pastor's Office

2008-06-14T06:54:00.000-07:00

Pastor Murray's office has seen more work this week. Most impressive are the new bookshelves in the office. Pastor's always have a lot of books and Pastor Murray is no exception. The office will give him plenty of room to spread out as he grows in the knowledge of God's holy Word and then imparts that life-giving Word to us all.

Make a Joyful Noise

2008-06-14T06:50:00.001-07:00

The music room received flooring yesterday. The VCT is a nice color pattern that helps make the transition back into the existing school space. You will notice that the floor has three large crosses (the bases are moving toward the A-frame windows, not in the picture). The lights and new cabinets are making this a great space for our continually growing music program. Cantor Muth continues to do a wonderful job teaching the faith through song. I am very excited that our music program will have a new space for a new song.

Wooden Window Crosses

2008-06-13T06:54:00.001-07:00

The fellowship hall now has the wooden cross finishes in the windows. The wood details in the room are very beautiful. As I have said before, this is going to be wonderful "formal" space for the church. I pictures all sorts of wonderful fellowship events taking place in this new space.

Bathroom Partition

2008-06-13T06:41:00.000-07:00

One of the contractors is slow making it to the job site. This has caused some serious problems for those trying to use the bathroom. With the building completion date (July 12) coming quickly we really need the partitions: Jan please bring them soon, everyone will be most appreciative.

MLS Remodel

2008-06-13T06:38:00.000-07:00

The classroom remodel in the school is quickly taking shape. Yesterday they had the final inspection so that the walls are being closed up today. They are also finishing up the last of the ceiling work. Because most of these changes are cosmetic they should be done in short order.

The Last Site Work

2008-06-13T06:24:00.000-07:00

Early this morning they hauled away the last of the old parking lots. The final site work is now being completed leaving everything ready for the new parking.

Colorful Floors

2008-06-11T10:48:00.000-07:00

Much of the VCT has now been installed in the early childhood wing of the new building. The colorful patterns look great with the cabinets. What a wonderful, clean, and bright space for our children.

Wood Base

2008-06-11T10:45:00.000-07:00

This morning work began on the installation of the wood base that is in all of the formal areas of the new building (fellowship hall, commons, etc.) The wood base in the fellowship hall (pictured here) matches the wood cabinets in the room. It is certainly slow work making all of the cuts but the room is looking wonderful.

Interior Doors

2008-06-11T10:42:00.000-07:00

Early this morning the interior doors arrived for the building. I didn't count them but there are certainly more than all my fingers and toes. While some are very colorful (matching the early childhood classroom colors) the main doors are very beautiful. This is another small detail that really helps bring things together.

Colorful Flooring

2008-06-10T12:33:00.000-07:00

Today the VCT tiles are being installed in the new early childhood wing of the building. There are 13 different colors in the flooring. I teased the flooring supervisor about not drinking before he comes to work; on second thought, maybe he needs a drink sorting through all of those color patterns.

The classrooms (cabinets, walls, and floors) are all going to be bright and beautiful. This will be a wonderful space for our youngest children to learn and grow.

Working Hard . . . or Hardly Working

2008-06-10T12:23:00.000-07:00

Caught Wyatt (our site foreman) working hard yesterday. Wyatt lost his home earlier this week. The construction trailer has been hauled away (making room for the parking lot work) and Wyatt has been forced to move into a small closet. The best thing about the new headquarters is that it is across from my office and I can keep a close eye on him.

As I have said before, Wyatt is doing a tremendous job orchestrating so many things happening all at once. I say he is working hard!

More Cool Lights

2008-06-10T12:21:00.000-07:00

This follows my earlier post today concerning the cool lights in the building: here are a few more in the commons area.

Covered Drive

2008-06-10T12:10:00.001-07:00

On Friday the crew began work on the covered walks and drop-off. The cover is on the west side of the sanctuary and attaches into the new building. There are two other covered areas in the project: the front of the gym stretching into the new building and in the courtyard between the library and the new building. The covered drop-off (in the picture) is going to be a most helpful part of the project. Now on a Sunday morning (or any other day) you can drop off under cover and get inside without getting wet!

Youth Room

2008-06-10T12:07:00.001-07:00

The youth room has been taking shape the last two weeks. It has a real warehouse feel to it: blacked out ceiling, industrial light fixtures, bright colors and metal work. The picture shows the kitchen area with the fun cabinets and the red accent wall. This is going to be a great space for our youth to gather for fun and fellowship.

Site Work Continues

2008-06-10T07:36:00.001-07:00

This week the site work is continuing at high speed. They are now working on the east side of the property grading the new parking lot in front of the gym and along the side of the new building. The picture shows them framing-up the new parking spaces.

The site work certainly has everything a mess (Westheimer is a constant dust-bowl) but this is one of those details that will really make things nice when the project is finished. Most have long ago forgotten the significant amount of dollars expended on site work. In the end these quiet improvements will benefit the facility for the long-term.

New Bering Approaches

2008-06-10T07:23:00.000-07:00

On Friday they worked and poured the new parking lot approaches off of Bering. The best thing (probably not noticed by most) is that the grade has been improved on all three Bering parking approaches. In the past the approaches were very steep and were not always kind to the underside of the car.

Fellowship Lights

2008-06-10T07:09:00.000-07:00

All of the lighting has now been installed in the fellowship hall. As this space is taking shape (lighting, brickwork, woodwork, glass, etc.) it is really going to be a wonderful formal space for the church; a space that we have never had.

I must say that the light fixtures in the building (as they are being installed) are really adding a lot to the space. It is amazing how the small details really bring things together.

Cleaning out the Line

2008-06-10T07:05:00.000-07:00

Another task undertaken was to "jet-out" the main drainage pipe that runs from the school playground to the north-east edge of the property. The jet retrieved 25 gallons of sand and gravel from inside the pipe. This too will help keep water draining from along the north side of the school building.

Playground Drain Cleared

2008-06-10T06:59:00.000-07:00

Although not part of the construction project the school is taking this time to do some work on the playground drainage. Over the last several years we have experienced several floods inside the school building because of inadequate drainage along the north side of the building and also a large lake (loving called Lake Memorial) that pools up in the playground.

This past week our plumbing contractor (Raven) cleaned out one of the large playground drains. The drain was dug-up and cleared of gravel and sand. This little bit of work will go a long way in helping with the problems.

Driveway Be Gone

2008-06-03T10:46:00.001-07:00

This week the parking lots are being completely destroyed along with the driveways (off of Bering). This has made access to the school building impossible except for our new entry from Macaroni Grill's parking lot (thank you Mac Grill for working with us throughout this project).

Since we hit almost every other service possible it should only be fitting that when pulling out the center driveway they hit the main telephone service. As best I can understand they broke a line that has about 900 service lines. As of the writing of this post, the telephone company was still working to restart the service. The telephone cable has been underground since the early 1980's and there was no protection between the driveway concrete and the cable. Sorry to all who have been without phone service these days.

Metal Roof, Part II

2008-06-03T10:43:00.001-07:00

About two months ago the decision was made to go ahead and place the metal roof on the existing school building. This is really going to help the look of the old school building. I appreciate the work of our architect and our construction contractor in helping to make this part of the project happen.

MLS Remodel

2008-06-03T10:33:00.000-07:00

For the last week the MLS remodel has been under construction. Both floors of the front of the school building have been gutted while they are reconfigured into three classrooms on each floor. These "new" rooms will be a wonderful expansion for the school (K-2nd grade on the first floor; 3rd-5th grade on the second floor).

You will remember that originally there were four classrooms on each floor; four very small classrooms. Three classrooms will give a nice amount of space in each classroom. These rooms will also have new storage (for both students and teachers). There will be new ceiling, new lighting, and the rooms will have their HVAC run off of the new chiller system. The remodel is certainly helping to put a new and improved face on our school.

KItchen Cabinets

2008-05-20T10:33:00.000-07:00

The cabinets are being installed in the kitchen. These cabinets are under the serving window which opens into the fellowship hall.

The new kitchen is going to be a wonderful additional to the new space. For the last several years we have "made-do" with the old gym kitchen. This new space will allow the congregation to gather for food, fun, and fellowship.

Bring in the Painters!

2008-05-18T04:23:00.000-07:00

There is no picture for today's post. On Friday and Saturday the sheet rock workers were busy sanding down the last of the rough spots. The interior walls (with a few exceptions) are now ready for the painters who will arrive on Monday morning.

The painting crew will prime the walls and then apply two coats of paint. The first coat will be done immediately and the final coat will be applied after all of the flooring and fixtures have been installed. This is being done so that the last coat of paint will be free from the bumps, dings, and dents that happen with so many people working inside the building. Also this week: tile work in the restrooms and EC classrooms; after a final inspection, ceiling tiles; more cabinetry installed; light fixture installation; final details completed in the youth room.

Beautiful Fixtures

2008-05-15T15:19:00.001-07:00

The fellowship space is now starting to see several bits of detail. Early this week one of the light fixtures was hung for inspection. The room has both recessed dimming lights and then these elegant hanging lights. This new space will certainly be wonderful as we gather together for food and fellowship.

All that Space!

2008-05-15T15:16:00.001-07:00

Do you remember the old church office workroom? If you do, you will remember how small and inefficient it was. Not any more. The new church workroom is taking shape and all of the cabinets and counter top space will be a real blessing to all who work and volunteer in the office.

Chiller On

2008-05-15T15:10:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, after working to get all the particulates out of the system, the final touches were made to the new chiller system and it was fired up. The building is now being cooled and the workers much appreciate a break from the heat.