Construction Update & What to Expect Over the Next Two Weeks

There has been tremendous progress this week in the building. All drywall and plasterboard are now installed, and much of the mudding is already complete. Painting has started. If progress continues at this pace, we anticipate finishing the remaining mudding, plasterwork, and much of the painting next week. It’s exhilarating to watch the project take shape with each step bringing us closer to a refreshed, more usable, and safer space for ministry.

With all that progress, though, comes a few temporary shifts in the flow of our facility. Here’s what you need to know:

Worship Location Change: July 19 & 26

For the next two Sundays, worship will take place in the community/fellowship hall (vestry). The sanctuary is temporarily unavailable while the final sprinkler pipe is installed and scaffolding is set up, which required moving most of the pews.

We expect to continue offering Google Meet and YouTube livestreaming without interuption.

This Sunday is especially meaningful. We will offer a blessing over Lucas Trindade as he prepares to leave for basic training. We hope you’ll make plans to be present for this moment of prayer and support, and the reception that will follow worship. Details for worship and how to join online this week, can be found here: https://franklinumc.org/2026/07/16/worship-together-sunday-july-19-2026/.

Community Closet Continues with a New Pilot Setup

The Community Closet will remain open on Tuesdays from 12-2p over the next two weeks. Even with pews and chairs temporarily setup in the fellowship hall, there’s still plenty of space to browse for “new-to-you” treasures.

Beginning today, we’re piloting a new setup for the Closet which includes an expanded footprint into the fellowship hall when the Closet is open; and, a contracted footprint into a new main-level multi-use room when closed. Moving the Closet to the main level has already made shopping and volunteering more accessible, and we’ve seen a noticeable increase in participation since the transition. This pilot will help us discern how best to support that growth.

Want to Learn More About the Projects?

If you’re curious about the construction work, the capital campaign, or the financial picture, you are encouraged to attend the Church Council meeting this Sunday after worship and following Lucas’ reception. We’ll walk through where things stand both in terms of the building projects and the campaign itself. If you cannot attend in-person at the church, you’re welcome to join the meeting via Google Meet (https://meet.google.com/mmj-ivmw-pop).

Let’s Stay Connected

As always, I’m glad to talk about the church, our ministries, the construction progress, and the community we’re building together at Franklin UMC. Don’t hesitate to reach out. I love these conversations.

Peace.
Pastor Jacob