The transformation taking place through Saint Michael’s Building our Future construction project is remarkable, and each day brings visible progress toward something extraordinary. From the steady progress across the campus to the visible signs of what’s to come, there is a real sense of anticipation and joy building among us. With our first Sunday in the new space set for August 2, we are drawing closer to a moment many have prayed for and worked toward for years. Here’s a look at what’s been happening and what’s just ahead as we prepare to step into this exciting new chapter together.
UPDATES TO WORSHIP SPACES
Stained Glass Windows
We are delighted to share that the stained glass restoration is now complete ahead of schedule. Originally expected to take 18 months, the careful repair and cleaning of the windows was finished in just 15 months. The beautiful Resurrection and Crucifixion windows have now been reinstalled on either side of the altar, once again framing the Church with their color and light. If you haven’t had a chance to see them yet, we hope you’ll take a moment on a Sunday morning to experience their beauty.
Digital Organ
The digital organ will be installed in the Choir Loft the week of April 19, marking an important milestone for worship in this season. This new instrument will enhance our services as it supports our music ministry and the Choir with clarity, consistency, and strength. While it serves as an interim solution, it plays a vital role in sustaining the rich musical tradition of Saint Michael as we continue to plan for the future.
Marble Cleaning
Another important preservation effort will take place in mid-June as we care for one of the most recognizable features of our Church. The 35-foot Carrara marble reredos—holding Charles Umlauf’s sculpture of The Archangels behind the altar—has been a central visual anchor for worship since 1961. To maintain its beauty and integrity, we will be professionally cleaning the marble along with the surrounding stone in both the Church and Chapel. All Sunday services will continue without interruption.
Bishop Moore Chapel
After faithfully serving as the clergy and altar guild sacristy throughout construction, Bishop Moore Chapel will be recommissioned on August 2 and restored once again as a sacred space for worship and prayer. As you enter, you’ll notice a change in seating, with chairs in place of the former pews—each one designed to hold a beautifully crafted kneeler on the back. In a wonderful expression of shared creativity, talented stitchers from our parish are already at work on custom needlepoint hassocks, featuring hand-painted scenes from the Book of Genesis by artist Sally Shiels Schupp. Coordinating kneelers for the altar rail will complement this work. These pieces will be added to the Bishop Moore Chapel in 2027, further enriching the beauty and meaning of this beloved space.
BEHIND THE BIG GREEN FENCE
Plaza
In early April, crews will begin pouring concrete for the new Plaza—a process that will take several weeks to complete. This space is being designed as a central gathering place for our parish: a place for celebrations, fellowship, and the everyday moments that build community. We’re excited to begin seeing it take shape.
CONSTRUCTION FENCE UPDATE
One of the most visible signs of progress is just around the corner. Between April 27 and May 8, the big green fence along the east and north sides of the construction site will come down. A temporary orange safety fence will then go up and remain in place until we receive our certificate of occupancy in mid-May. At that point, this fence, too, will be removed. The new areas of campus will remain locked and secured as crews put the finishing touches on the building in preparation for our August 2 opening. You will still enter the Church on Douglas, the Chapel on Colgate, and Education Building through the West Entrance from now until August 2.
CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY
We remain on track to receive our certificate of occupancy in mid-May. While this is an important milestone, it marks the beginning of our final phase rather than the finish line. There will still be significant work underway to prepare the building for full use ahead of our opening on Sunday, August 2. Temporary walls will be in place to allow crews to complete their work safely—so even if you’re tempted to peek inside, we promise it will be worth the wait.
ENTRANCE TO THE BUILDING FROM THE GARAGE OPENS AUGUST 2
Over June and July, we will complete the new church entrance from the garage, including the installation of glass doors, stonework, and final finishing details. Parishioners are still welcome to park in the garage during this time, and then on August 2, the entrance to the new building from the garage will be open!
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Sunday, August 2: Welcome Home!
After years of prayer and preparation, we are excited to open the doors to Saint Michael’s newly transformed church home. Join us in our new space as we begin this new chapter together in worship and community.
7:30 a.m.
Traditional – Chapel
9 a.m.
Traditional – Church
Joy! A Children’s Service – Parish Hall
10 a.m.*
*Sunday Classes resume August 16
11 a.m.
Traditional – Church
Contemporary – Parish Hall
5:30 p.m.
Traditional – Chapel
Sunday, September 27: Grand Opening & Building Dedication
On the Feast of Saint Michael, join us as we celebrate the grand opening of the new campus and dedicate these spaces built for worship and community—for now and generations to come.
We will offer our usual worship services on this Sunday plus these special events:
10 a.m.
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony – Atrium
10:15 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Food, Fellowship, and Fun – Atrium & Plaza
CONCLUSION
This moment belongs to all of us. Through your prayers, generosity, patience, and faith, what once felt like a distant vision is now becoming a reality. As we prepare to open these revitalized spaces, we hope you’ll plan to join us for the celebrations this summer and fall, and as our Rector, Chris Girata, shares so well, the best is yet to come.