A Bold Challenge for the Future

In order to continue to serve its membership, community and city, First and Franklin Street must make significant improvements to its infrastructure by repairing and upgrading its historic campus. The Church’s leadership has embarked on a major fund-raising initiative to support the first phase of these capital improvements. The capital campaign’s current objective is to fund the renovation of the Sanctuary. This phase of the project is scheduled to begin in spring 2009, and will:

• Repair and repaint plasterwork

• Install air conditioning

• Upgrade the electrical, lighting, and sound systems

• Refurbish the pipe organ

• Improve the acoustics

• Expand the chancel to provide increased
flexibility in worship services and performances.

Future phases of capital improvements will include the renovation of Hodge House for new church offices, nursery and children’s facilities, and a fellowship hall for congregational and community functions. The final phase of capital projects will be the construction of a connecting structure linking the Sanctuary, Hodge House, and Backus House, providing handicapped access to the campus and a columbarium to cherish the ashes of departed members and friends.