See, I am doing a new thing!

Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?

I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

Isaiah 43:19

We believe God is doing a new thing in our midst here at First Covenant Church of Saint Paul (FCC). This includes preparing our building to be used in new and meaningful ways as we more fully live into our identity, mission, vision, and values. We're calling this the Renew Initiative.


The Renew Initiative is three-fold:

  • renovation of Lower Fellowship Hall
  • replacement of our 70 year old boiler
  • renovation of Lower Level classrooms and restrooms


We know that we can't accomplish this opportunity alone. We need our community to partner with us financially and physically as we step boldly into this new chapter of ministry and life together. Commitment cards for the Renew Initiative are due back in worship on August 1 (not able to join us in person, you can to return your commitment card by mailing it in to the church office).


GIVE TO THE RENEW INITIATIVE TODAY!



CHECK OUT OUR FALL 2021 RENEW INITIATIVE UPDATE HERE!


GIVING

Phase One:

  • Projected costs: $250,000
  • Summer 2021 - Fall 2022
  • Boiler and Lower Fellowship Hall renovations

Phase Two:

  • Projected costs: $110,000
  • 2022 - 2023
  • Lower Level renovations

Total projected costs: $360,000


How do we get there?

  • $80,000 from reserves
  • $10,000 from donors outside the First Covenant community
  • $180,000 above and beyond giving over two years from our church community.


GIVE TO THE RENEW INITIATIVE TODAY


REQUEST A RENEW INITIATIVE COMMITMENT CARD HERE

TIMELINE

PHASE ONE

July 2021: Lower Fellowship Hall (LFH) ceiling and carpeting removed by volunteers.

August 2021: LFH renovation and reconstruction begins with Station 19 and contractors.

Fall 2021: LFH renovation completed; boiler removed and replaced.


PHASE TWO

2022-2023: Further renovation of Lower Level classrooms and bathrooms.

  • First Covenant's current boiler was installed in 1951, and after 70 years of faithful service it is time for it to be replaced. Since 2000, FCC has spent over $100,000 in repairs to keep the current boiler going, and anticipate at least $23,000 in repairs for known issues in 2021, if not replaced.


    Projected cost for this project: $150,000

    • dual boiler system ($35,000)
    • removal and asbestos abatement for old boiler ($85,000)
    • pipe network and air handler repair ($30,000)

    We anticipate 25% in annual savings to utilities, with heat more evenly distributed through the building, and easier maintenance and upkeep going forward. The investment will begin paying for itself by 2030.

  • As our partners, Fruit of the Vine Food Shelf, moved upstairs this summer to the former Youth Wing, our youth ministry's need for meeting space to gather and grow in relationship with each other and with Jesus prompted a fresh look at LFH. Outside of the Sanctuary, LFH is the largest room in the building. Over the years LFH served our congregation and community well, but has become worn and dated. The space is in dire need of new life to make it a functional and welcoming space.


    FCC is working with Station 19, a local interior design and architectural firm, to design a space that will meet the needs of our students, church community, and partners. Station 19 works almost exclusively with churches to create spaces to achieve their vision for ministry.


    Projected cost for this project: $100,000

  • Beyond this Phase One, First Covenant will work with Station 19 to reimagine the rest of our space in our Lower Level. Lower Level classrooms and restrooms will be included in Phase 2, to be completed in 2022-2023.


    Projected cost for this project: $110,000