News

Steeple preservation project update 6.29.23
As we watched part of the church’s solar panel array being removed to make way for scaffolding around the steeple, we reflected on the centuries of dedication that thousands of members of our congregation have put into the buildings and facilities that have sheltered and helped foster our congregation’s worship and church lives. We wondered what our early church members would think of the church building if they could see it today? But more importantly, although we are humble as we carry on the centuries of work, we are confident that those that have come before us would be satisfied that we are carrying forward their work in faith and preserving what they have done.

Here’s the latest steeple project timeline:

• Solar array: 32 panels, about 40% of the total array on our roof, have been removed to make way for the scaffolding.
• Erecting scaffolding: Erection of scaffolding will start on Wednesday July 5. This is a firm date. An engineer is evaluating the structure that supports the roof around the steeple to ensure it will support the load of the scaffolding on it. It will take about 3 weeks to erect and enclose the scaffolding.
• Preservation and Painting: As soon as the scaffolding is erected and inspected, a detailed inspection of the steeple will be performed. Preservation and painting will start. This work will take at least one month. We cannot give a better estimate of the timeline until the inspection can be performed. Additionally this portion of the work depends on the weather.
• Completion: Our rough estimate for completing the preservation and painting of the steeple is around Labor Day. It can take up to ta month after the work is complete to remove the scaffolding and replace the solar panels.

You can find information and frequently asked questions about more Wellesley Village Church sustainability topics on our website at: https://wellesleyvillagechurch.org/sustainability-faqs/