Many people have commented in the past year that the pews are in a very poor state and that something needs to be done. They are dirty and stained. The foam padding has collapsed. The material underneath the seat is wearing out and often falls onto the floor causing more work for those on the cleaning roster. The immediate reaction is that we should recover the existing pews.
However, we are taking the opportunity to consider our needs for the next twenty years. This has led the property review group to recommend that we replace the pews with chairs. The chairs have been on display for the past couple of weeks. They are solid and padded and most people say they are comfortable. The chairs lock together and form a continuous row, almost like pews. There is an option to get some chairs with armrests.
The advantages of these chairs include the flexibility that they provide. The chairs can be moved to form seating for smaller groups, alternative seating patterns for worship services or removed entirely to open up the worship space for other activities. The chairs can also be moved into other spaces such as the hall or meeting room to provide additional seating, thus eliminating the need to have many chairs that are unused most of the time.
Chairs will also have a more contemporary feel. Where it does not compromise the integrity of the gospel, it is important that the church continue to keep pace with expectations of people in our society. Doing so lowers barriers to them entering the church, hearing God’s message and responding to Christ’s transformation. A verse that I continually refer to when thinking about our building is Peter saying “it is my judgment, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God” (Acts 15:19).
Apart from these considerations, cost is another advantage. We have a quote that says it will cost $20 000 to recover the pews. This compares with $16 000 to buy new chairs. In addition we might be able to sell the pews to reduce the cost further.
People have raised concerns about difficulty of cleaning the floor with extra chair legs. Also, questions about where bibles and communion cups will be stored. These are legitimate questions that can be solved by thinking of different ways of doing what we currently do. Already practical suggestions have been made. These concerns should not stop us going ahead, but cause us to recognise that some things may need to change.
After further reflection, the property group may make a recommendation to Church Council and this will be brought to a Congregational meeting. If a recommendation to buy chairs is presented it will include a colour scheme that will be part of an overall scheme for the whole building.
In the meantime, if you would like to make further comment please contact either myself or Peter Cranna who heads up the property group.
Grace and peace
David Fender
