More than 400 church members and project partners gathered Sunday morning to celebrate the completion of Trinity Lutheran Church’s $5.8 million capital campaign, which funded a three-phase expansion and reconfiguration to their existing facility as well as the restoration of the church’s iconic cross tower. The expansion project was completed over the course of one year while the church remained occupied and operational.
“We begin this morning with a rite for the Dedication of a remarkable building project, completing a yearlong effort to house our mission while renovating and refreshing most of our physical facility,” said Senior Pastor, Robert Linstrom. “In those orders we pray, ‘We give you thanks, O God, for you transcend the boundaries of space and time, yet you are willing to make your home in human hearts. We are the temple of your presence, and this building is the house of your church.’”
Special guest, North/West Lower Michigan Synod Bishop Craig Satterlee, provided the sermon for all three services.
Several additional contributors were recognized at the dedication event, including church member and expert craftsmen, Gene Gunderson, who volunteered his talents to build a custom altar, pulpit and baptismal font using reclaimed wood from former church pews. Among the others recognized were church building committee members, project donors, Progressive AE (design firm), and Owen‑Ames‑Kimball Co. (construction management firm).
Fellowship Addition
The design intent for the fellowship addition was to unify an evolving congregation that supports multiple worship styles and generations. Formerly a lower-level courtyard, the new 3,000 square-foot fellowship space features cathedral ceilings with clerestory windows, a central glass-paneled staircase leading to the main floor, and an open wall connecting to the contemporary worship area, known as the church’s “Rejoice Worship Center.”
Rejoice Worship Center
The existing Rejoice Worship Center was completely renovated and features: a new acoustical cloud ceiling; a new stage area with integrated theatrical lighting, an inductive hearing loop system beneath the floor for the hearing impaired; and upgraded finishes throughout.
New entrance and corridor transformation
A new building entrance and corridor provides direct access into the new fellowship space, with adjacent renovations and building reconfigurations to increase wayfinding and enhance church operations. Additional renovations provided a new youth area, offices, and gathering space.