“Rejoice and Renew” is the name of Epiphany Lutheran Church’s renovation campaign taking place on the church property at Vallette and Spring Rd. in recognition of the congregation’s history and its mission for the future. Pictured here are (from left) Chip Johnson, 2020 council president and construction liaison, Gaspare Pitrello of general contractor Arcon Associates, Inc., and Pastor Ron Feltman.
The Elmhurst congregation’s leaders say planned changes to Epiphany’s building and grounds are focused on helping the 95-year-old congregation serve members and their community for decades to come.
Church Council President Chip Johnson said the planning began two years ago. Renovations of old buildings like the church often take this long to plan as they don’t only need to worry about planning for local contractors, hiring skip bins sydney, sourcing materials, etc. but they also need to take into account the building’s structural integrity, any graves in the area, and planning permission for any changes made.
The renovation’s first project is a total upgrade of Epiphany’s parking lot off Hillside Avenue. It includes a new drop-off area and better traffic flow. Construction began in Nov. and was completed in early 2021.
Other planned improvements to the church at Vallette Street and Spring Road include a new sound system in the sanctuary, major improvements to the building’s front entrance and façade plus a new entry welcome area, installation of an elevator and better building access, as well as updates to heating, cooling and electrical systems. The roof would also need to be checked; this church is so old that there might be no way to determine how strong the roof still is. To prevent it from falling and causing injuries, Denver roofing companies or similar ones in the area can be contacted, who can also do any repairs, or replace the whole thing if necessary. There will also be a new handicapped accessible south entrance from the renovated parking lot.
Pastor Ron Feltman said he was looking forward to the new youth room for the high schoolers and the upgrading of the primary classrooms.
Property Chairman Marty Jensen said he is pleased about the energy-saving vestibules that will be included for all entrances to the building.
The current church is on the site of the first facility constructed for Epiphany’s worship in 1926. Epiphany calls the renovation campaign “Rejoice and Renew” in recognition of the congregation’s history and its mission for the future.
Church leaders say they hope all renovations can be completed by the end of 2021.
The campaign has received more than $1.9 million in pledges, leaders said. Congregation members also have volunteered many hundreds of hours to the project.
Overall project planning and design services are provided by ARCON Architects. Johnson praised the firm’s work, as well as the guidance received from the City of Elmhurst.
Council Vice-President Tom Connolly said “it is truly an exciting time for Epiphany and its future.”
