Update on Sanctuary Modernization

Earlier this year, we began an ambitious project to modernize our church sanctuary. Many elements of the modernization have proceeded smoothly, including the stage optimization and an expanded audio/visual centre, though the upgrades to the area around the existing baptistry have faced a number of challenges, including supply chain delays and cost escalations related to COVID-19. As a result, it was decided to proceed with a scope consisting of audio/visual, stage, and baptistry components.

However, over the ensuing months scope changes pertaining to the baptistry foundation introduced significant uncertainty regarding project finances and schedule. In good faith, and given the need to be good stewards of the Lord’s house and His finances, the Board of Elders has made the difficult decision to temporarily not pursue full completion of the stage with an installed baptistry. Instead, the stage will be completed without a baptistry and options for the conducting of baptisms will be explored.

The result is that we are able to accelerate the timeline for using the sanctuary. This decision temporarily defers a permanent baptistry installation – the timing of which can continue to be considered in the context of the issues raised above, while allowing us to resume use of the sanctuary.

December 9, 2021

Sincerely,
Bonavista Baptist Church Elders