As we prepare to make the best use of our newly acquired 1710 Spruce St., improvements are underway, including an adjoining walkway. Construction was recently completed by carpenter and Tenth member Mathew (one "t") Phan.

I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with ability and intelligence, with knowledge and all craftsmanship.  Exodus 31:3

Designed by architect Darv Dombach and overseen by our building committee, the walkway bridges the church to the new building using a railed, level walk, accompanied by a ramp from ground-level.

Darv provides some background about his own involvement in the project from a personal perspective.

"The walkway is exciting to me in three aspects."

I.  It is a herald of better things to come.

• It is a first expression of our thanks to God for his gift to us.
• It is a first step in fitting out the new building to our needs.
• It is a first commitment with this building to future generations of Tenth Church.

Darv asks, "But why should an accessible walkway be the first physical expression?"

II.  It celebrates that the new building is for our whole body in all its diversity.

"Our members have not been cut from a cookie cutter like so many gingerbread men. That's why we have multiple types of gatherings. We want to be all things to all people. What a joy it is to demonstrate that those who have difficulty negotiating stairs should also be able to enjoy the diversity we all enjoy. This walkway provides level access from the sanctuary to the new building, as well as any class or lunch we offer there. It doesn't get much more accessible than that!"

III.  The third exciting aspect of the new walkway is that it includes a ramp.

"This provides accessible 'front door' access every day of the week. In that way it not only breaks down physical barriers, it also breaks down time barriers. And why shouldn't it? After all, we are also a body comprising people of all types from all generations."

Editor's Note:  

A weekend carpenter myself, I've enjoyed checking in with Mat Phan during the project and taking in the sweet aroma of fresh sawdust! 

Mat explained to me that plans for the walkway were sent by our building committee to Lowe's via an on-line ordering system that generates a precise materials list. This process greatly streamlined the ordering process, leaving Mat to do what he does best — creating things of function and beauty for the Lord.

And check out the concrete footings underneath.  "Two days with a post hole digger," recalls Mat.  I can believe it!