After three years of fundraising and renovation, the First Presbyterian Church on
the corner of Seventh Street and Capitol Avenue in downtown Springfield will host an open house for the public.
“We have made spaces for the community to use, added a central elevator for access to those needing mobility help and designed a trauma-informed space,” said Rev. Susan Phillips. “We hope people will come see the dramatic and beautiful changes we have made.”
An open house will be held from 1-4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 18.
The long hallway with a mural painted 20 years ago is mainly intact, although a few sections had to be cut out but were saved. Many other areas have been reconfigured. The old chapel is gone, replaced with a beautiful space that includes some of the flooring and beams from the former chapel. The floor includes a labyrinth design that creates a walking prayer path.
“A path such as this is prehistoric, and ones have been found in six continents. It is not a maze but a meditation path,” Phillips said.
The old chapel has been turned into a history area with pictures of founding pastors and other memorabilia.
There are also many changes that can’t be seen but had to be updated such as heating and air conditioning, fire suppression, removal of radiators and more.
During the restoration, a structural, brick archway was uncovered. The mortar had bits of art glass in it which is believed to have come from debris left over from fires in 1893 and 1895.
The renovation includes a commons area, reception hall, large all-purpose room
with a performance stage, a new nursery adjacent to a meeting area, and a gallery with three smooth walls for displays of art. Cuban art now hangs in the area. The church is a partner with the Sancti Spiritus Church in Cuba.
A map of spaces available for community use and detailing the number of people each can accommodate is on the church’s website along with a room request form.
Phillips said the renovations were done keeping in mind the concept of trauma-informed architecture.
“Many areas were like a maze; to lessen trauma for those affected, areas have been opened up so people can see their way out. Colors are soothing; areas include plants that bring in nature.”
The members of the church have embraced all the work. Although some groups had already been using the church for choral and theater rehearsals, the church members now want to invite additional community groups to use the space for more events such as meetings, programs, funerals, performances and more.
Phillips explained the real meaning of the new space. “First, this is a reflection of the dedication of our congregation to the well-being of the community. We want to invest
in downtown Springfield, and this offers a way to collaborate with partners and in a
space that is now healthier and safer.”
