Peabody's Lutheran Church plans open house
The public is invited to attend an open house from 3 to 5 p.m. Oct. 1 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 212 E. Division, Peabody.
The interior of the church sanctuary has been repainted in an artistic manner. It last underwent renovation in 1952, prior to the congregation's 75th anniversary.
The 98-year-old building serves a congregation that was established 129 years ago. It was dedicated Sept. 27, 1908.
According to church council member Gayle Scriven of Florence, the current renovation was done by professional restoration experts. It was begun just after Memorial Day and was completed July 21.
Artisans spent five days building scaffolding that provided access to the entire sanctuary. Pews remained in place. They were covered with plastic sheeting, and all doors were sealed.
After making repairs to walls and the metal ceiling, paint was applied to emphasize unique architectural features.
Paint was applied around otherwise frameless windows to create a framed effect and highlight their stained glass beauty.
The pipes of the church's historic, majestic organ were painted gold. The 1897 Moller was the second pipe organ to be installed in the state. In 1976, it was repaired and restored by students from Bethel College, North Newton. It is the oldest organ in Kansas still in continuous use.
The ceiling of the adjoining fellowship hall also was repaired and received a fresh coat of paint.
The project was made possible through the Josephine McCreary (1912-2004) Trust. The spinster was a lifelong member, sang in the church choir, and was a second grade teacher in Peabody's public school system for many years.
Members, former members, and guests are invited to lunch at 11:30 a.m. A worship service led by Pastor Robert Kloth will be held at 1 p.m.
