This existing 1960's flat roofed, red brick box church lacked identity and warmth. The interior was dark, grim and un-spiritual. The new steep pitched steeple and chapel provide identity and have skylight roofs which bathe the interior with natural daylight and glow as welcoming beacons in the night skyline.

This church is celebrating its 111th year and is only one of a handful of churches that remain to serve the downtown inner city. Their original wooden Victorian building was replaced in 1960 by a structure that was meant to be temporary. Instead, it remained as their sanctuary for 40 years, hidden among the high-rise office buildings which gradually surrounded it. The renovation was designed to bring the church prominence and convey their message ". . . in the city for good", all on a very modest budget.

The truthfulness of materials was an important design consideration. The existing interior painted brick and glue-laminated beams were sandblasted revealing their natural finishes. Italian tile, Canadian maple and acid etched colored concrete were used as some of the flooring materials. The acoustical qualities of these materials created a live space which enhanced the music program. The old pipe organ is currently being rebuilt and will sit on the chancel beneath the tower.

The new courtyard is truly an urban garden. The subtle crucifix pattern which extends beyond the courtyard onto the city sidewalk invites the public and homeless to worship. The chapel is open daily for prayer and meditation. The brick pavers were salvaged from the old courtyard. A new commercial kitchen aids the church's ministry to provide weekly meals for the homeless. A dual entry and hall configuration gracefully allows the space to function for both worship and feeding.