Big Black Box

Those who attended any of Shiloh's three worship services this past Sunday likely noticed that the chancel is now filled with a big black box. That big black box is actually a room. It consists of wall to wall, and ceiling to floor, containment of dust and debris that will be produced by Shiloh's chancel renovation. In order to protect our organ pipes and to reduce the amount of dust in the sanctuary, the planning process included the construction of this room.

In case you are wondering, the room does have a covered ceiling. While those who sit in the pews or the chairs cannot easily perceive it, the ceiling is roughly 39' x 16', built of 2" x 6" studding on roughly 4' centers, and covered by very thick, black plastic. A design alteration had to made in order to accommodate our projector, so the room is not a perfect rectangle.

Jay McMillen and I assisted Sid Manley in the construction of the big black box. It was built over two days, Monday and Tuesday, April 9 & 10. The big black box will worship with us until Shiloh receives the necessary permit to continue our demolition of the choir loft. Once the permits are received, and the congregation votes to complete the project, we will begin removal of the existing choir loft. Sid estimates that the demolition may take up to two weeks. After removal and cleanup, we plan to remove the big black box and use its wood to construct the floor and wall framing.

Thanks mainly to Connie Neef, the chancel remains appropriate for worship. The chancel paraments add a great deal to the look, as do the screens on either side of the rather stark backdrop.

If you have not yet seen the big black box, or if you want to know more about the chancel renovation project, call or stop by. We would love to show you what is planned, what is happening, and to explain how it is all being accomplished. The best way to see it, of course, is to join us in worship each Sunday, 8:30 a.m. for a quiet Meditation Service, 10:25 a.m. for a Liturgical Service, and 7:00 p.m. for an alternative Praise Worship Service.

See You Sunday!