On May 19, the Sanctuary Renewal Task Force presented the proposed design for congregational study, discussion, and consideration — today and in the months to come. SUMMER OF CONVERSATIONS Join us in the nave, at the front of the sanctuary, between services from 9:20 – 9:50. May 26: Together we’ll...
Sanctuary Renewal Master Plan Presentation
by Jim Hundt, Foresight Architects Foresight Architects has been creating master plans since our founding in 1993. Since that time, we have completed over 70 master plans for churches around the country – most of which have since been implemented. We felt then as we do today that it’s not...
Stepping Out: Renewing our Worship Space
Dear Friends, In the last couple of years, I’ve sometimes chosen to preach from the steps in front of the altar instead of the pulpit. I don’t do it every time I preach because it’s a lot of work to memorize the sermon. Some weeks, I have the time. Others,...
Sanctuary Redesign
by Mike Kruger, Chair of Sanctuary Task Force Getting involved in the sanctuary redesign effort at Gloria Dei has been quite an adventure and an amazing experience for me! It started with Tim Strand’s demonstration one Sunday morning in the Chancel. He literally gave a “hands on” demonstration on why...
Sanctuary Redesign Needs Assessment Report
In November over 120 people gathered to share their ideas on and input about the future of our worship space. Opinions, ideas, hopes, dreams and concerns were voiced and recorded. We truly value everyone’s involvement and passion. All of the information was gathered and submitted to our architect, Jim Hundt...
Meet Paul Friesen-Carper, New Assistant Director of Music
Paul begins his ministry with us this December. Here are some fun facts about Paul: 1) What was the first musical instrument you learned to play? Who taught you? My first instrument was the cello. I first was introduced to it when my father taught a beginning strings class for...
Gloria Dei Welcomes Assistant Director of Music
Gloria Dei welcomes Paul Friesen-Carper as our new Assistant Director of Music. This newly-created position helps to expand our music program to include additional style and focus for congregational singing, as well as increased attention to the children's music program. Paul will help lead music on Sunday morning and will...
Gloria Dei introduces new Director of Children and Family Faith Formation
Kyrstin Schwartz joins Gloria Dei as Director of Children and Family Faith Formation. We're excited to announce that Kyrstin Schwartz will be joining our staff as the full-time Director of Children and Family Faith Formation. She brings many years of experience in youth and children's ministry in the Lutheran Church....
Pastor Bradley’s Letter to Rabbi Adam Spilker, Mt. Zion Temple
Dear Rabbi Spilker, Adam, my colleague and friend, the people of God at Mount Zion Temple The people of Gloria Dei stand alongside the people of Mt. Zion Temple as well as the people of Tree of Life Congregation, crying out to God for healing; for an end to hatred and...
What? Change the Chancel?
It’s actually not a new idea to adapt a building to house Christian worship. In fact, Gloria Dei has been adapting its building and its worship practices almost since the current building was constructed in 1950. In this presentation, I try to summarize the history of Christian architecture, with a...