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August 12th & 19th,
2007
Albert White, Jr. Warden |
New
Facilities
All Saint’s marvelous new facilities could
not be possible were it not for the commitment of faith, generosity and
fortitude that defines our congregation. We have evolved over years to
become a significant and diverse group of parishioners, clergy and staff. We
not only enjoy the support of but provide a benchmark for the Diocese of
Mississippi and I envision that role becoming more important with each new
day.
Each one among us wants to participate in the use and enhancement of our
campus. In the few days since we began to occupy the new space, I have seen
and heard numerous expressions of gladness and relief as well as questions.
Now that we have it, what do we do with it? What can I contribute to make it
even better? With that in mind, please consider these guidelines as we learn
just what it is we have created together.
Furnishings and Appointments The Building Committee has implemented a
careful comprehensive furnishings plan for the new building. Much of the
furniture is in place, though some areas are not yet fully furnished, mainly
due to furniture or fabrics being on order. We appreciate your patience as
the remaining furniture and other appointments continue to arrive. Please do
not bring furniture, wall hangings or other objects into the building
without the prior consent of the wardens. Suggestions and ideas about
furnishings and appointments will be gladly referred to the Vestry for
decision in consultation with the Building Committee.
Systems and Equipment As planned, our new facilities have state-of-the-art
heating and cooling systems, security and fire systems, lighting and audio
systems, a retractable wall system in the parish hall and a
professionally-equipped kitchen. The Property Committee, led by Stephen
King, has oversight of these areas. Please do not attempt to operate any of
these systems or equipment (including adjusting the thermostats!) until a
member of the Property Committee has shown you how to properly use them. If
you have any questions or concerns about any of our systems or equipment,
please contact a member of the Property Committee or one of the wardens.
Signage We have intentionally not yet placed signs in the building or on the
grounds. Presently there are maps of the building located on tables inside
each entrance to help you find your way around. We want to "live in" the
building a little while before placing permanent signs. Temporary signs will
soon be placed on the grounds. The location of these temporary signs will be
experimented with until we feel comfortable about appropriate placement of
permanent exterior signs. In the meantime, if you experience any trouble
finding anything, please let us know. Your input will help us decide about
the location of signs.
Landscaping Initial landscaping is underway. The first phase has involved
installation of drainage and irrigation systems, ground cover and bed
preparation. Implementation of the full landscaping plan will occur in
stages. There are some exciting ideas about the next stages, and more
information about that will be provided soon. This fall we expect to offer
opportunities for dedication of trees and other plantings to further
beautify the grounds on which our new building stands.
Use of the Facilities We want you to use the new facilities! So that
conflicts can be avoided, we ask that you schedule your use of the building
with the church office. Contact Tommie Moore to arrange your meeting or
other event. Please note that initial access to the building after hours
will be via the door on Madison Street which is equipped with a keyless
entry keypad.
Clearly, all of this newness is going to take some getting used to. Suffice
it to say that the building, its arrangement and contents have been
carefully planned with an eye toward future needs. Moving in has been the
next big step, but that is not the last step. With our plans continuing to
be realized, we will not so much grow into the building as the building and
its uses will be shaped around us and those we serve. For that, patience is
the key. Patience and faithfulness are major parts of what have brought us
to this day and they will certainly bring us to many great days to come.
Faithfully,
Albert White, Jr. Warden
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