Reflections by Lucy Rupe
Walking into the sanctuary of the Melnik Church building on Sunday, April 15, was a new and bright experience. Why, you might ask, since this building dates back to the 1800s?
The sanctuary of this 116 year old congregation with Bohemian roots had just been remodelled and re-painted. It literally glistened. According to the organist, Lorraine Krummel, it had been almost sixty years since the sanctuary was last painted.
The front of the sanctuary has been updated by the removal of the heavy velvet hangings, the addition of recessed lighting, the re-structuring of the ceiling, and the placement of a handcrafted wooden cross. Elder Don Schanke obtained the wood and finished the cross which had been notched by Elder Erv Kettner. These improvements present a feeling of openness and spaciousness in an area that once appeared closed and uninviting.
The freshness of this refurbished sanctuary contributes to the warm hospitality one receives when worshipping with the Melnik congregation.
Serving the pastoral needs of this congregation are: the Rev. Nelson Craig, Moderator and Elder Phil Kintzel, Commissioned Lay Pastor student.
Pictured at the communion table are: Harold Krummel (right) and Erv Kettner (left)
Pictured at the organ are: Lorraine Krummel (right) and Ruth Prochazka (left)
