FUMC Springdale Renovates 80-Year-Old Chapel for Modern Use

In November, First United Methodist Church Springdale celebrated the opening of their newly renovated chapel. The project, according to Senior Pastor Andrew Thompson, began in the fall of 2017 with a fundraising campaign, and all of the money needed to fund the project was raised by the congregation.

The original chapel was built in 1936 and served as the main sanctuary of the church from 1936 to 1980. It is the oldest existing part of FUMC Springdale, but was left pretty much unused for almost 40 years.

The Chapel, as the church calls it, now holds the Cornerstone worship service. It seats 250 compared to the sanctuary's 650 capacity, making it a more intimate worship experience.

Springdale First was also able to add an ADA compliant ramp, making The Chapel handicap accessible for the first time in its history.

Pictures from the dedication ceremony held on Nov. 3, as well as shots of the interior of The Chapel, can be seen on the following pages.

The Chancel Choir led by the Rev. Danny Reding, Associate Pastor for Worship Ministries, performed for the Chapel dedication.. || Photo by Lori Krie

The trio of windows in the balcony of the chapel are original to the building. They were created by Jacoby Art Glass in St. Louis, Missouri.|| Photo by Lori Krie

Balcony view of the newly renovated space. The space is a combination of traditional and contemporary. Original flooring, lights, windows, and architectural features were saved. State-of-art lighting and sound were added. The pews were replaced with chairs so the space would be more versatile. The chancel was updated for contemporary service. || Photo by Lori Krie

Renovation Committee Chairperson Mary Stockland spoke to the congregation during the dedication of the Chapel. || Photo by Lori Krie

Facilities Supervisor Dan Guido installs the original 1936 cornerstone into the new handicap accessible chapel entry. || Photo by Lori Krie