What is the Scope of the Project?

The project's goal is to address delaminated plaster at risk of further deterioration in the sanctuary ceilings above the cornice and side ceilings. The project will laminate the sanctuary ceiling and side ceilings with ¼” gypsum board by means of a glue-and-screw method to cover delaminated plaster and lock it in. The new gypsum board will be painted to match the walls and longer-term ceiling designs will be addressed through the Foundry Forward Initiative.

How Long will it Take?

The project is estimated to take 2 months to complete. For Sunday worship, we anticipate being in a modified “swing space” set up through at least June 29.

Will it be safe to be in the building during construction/repairs?

Yes. There will be areas marked as authorized personnel only in the areas of immediate construction - but all remaining parts of the building will be functional.

Where/How will The Foundry be Gathering during construction?

The Foundry will continue to meet on Sundays through a combination of special offsite services and events and temporary onsite “swing spaces” through at least June 29. The initial schedule is as follows: 

April 27 - Special services at Thomas Johnson Elementary/Middle (rain plan main sanctuary)

May 4 - 9:30/11 a.m. services at onsite swing space *

May 11 - 9:30/11 a.m. services at onsite swing space *

May 18 Feed More, B’more at FSK elementary/Middle 

May 25 - 9:30/11 a.m. services at onsite swing space *

June 1 - 9:30/11 a.m. services at onsite swing space *

June 8 - Pentecost Services at Coppin State University - 10 a.m 

June 15 - 9:30/11 a.m. services at onsite swing space *

June 22 - 9:30/11 a.m. services at onsite swing space *

*Room locations and service times may be subject to change

What are the current onsite “swing spaces?”

Nursery & Kids check-in will remain “as is.” 

Worship services will move to the first floor/preschool area. 

Preschool classes will move to current elementary classroom. 

Elementary Classes will move to The Foundry Offices (1602 Johnson). Kids will check in at the main building and be escorted securely to the office through the back alley. 

All locations will be subject to change as needed.

Will there still be Foundry Kids?

Yes! On Sundays where there is not a special offsite event, Foundry kids will meet at the current scheduled times (and when offsite, our programming will be family-friendly).  While the location of the nursery will remain unchanged, the Preschool class will temporarily move to the Elementary room. The current elementary class will check-in at the main building and be escorted to The Foundry Offices (1602 Johnson St), which is being made over for them temporarily.

Will services still be streamed?

Yes. 

How can I help? 

1. Pray for a smooth transition and a smooth and safe construction process; pray that new guests can engage and for the leaders and volunteers facilitating the transition. 

2. Be patient and gracious with our volunteers and leaders and  each other as we roll out our swing space schedule.

3. Find a way to grow in engagement during this season: join a team, or consider one of the upcoming summer events. 

4. Pay attention for upcoming work days moving both into and out of the swing spaces. 

5. Continue to be generous. Though the initial construction costs are covered, there are extra costs attached to special events, equipment purchases/rentals, etc. 

Who’s coordinating the project?

After examining a few proposals, we are working with AKORS on the initial ceiling repair and single-color repainting. 

How is the project being paid for?

The funds for the initial project scope are committed without impacting our 2025 Operational budget. The funds came from a 2024 year-end surplus from specialized “asks” and gifts specifically earmarked for the ceiling repair. If there are overages, they will be taken from our “rainy day” savings fund. 

Is this part of Foundry Forward? 

Yes and no. The need for the immediate repair of the ceiling is viewed as a precursor to the rest of any future Foundry Forward initiatives. Other considerations, such as the re-decoration of the ceiling, will be considered among other initiatives raised by the Foundry Forward Process.