First Christian Church Chancel Screen

Ames, Iowa

After years of struggling with the inadequate original pipe organ, the congregation purchased a three manual organ console and augmented and restored the original pipes. New baffles were installed over the majority of the chancel wall to diffuse the sound more evenly throughout the sanctuary.

The design solution for the chancel screen arose from a collaboration with the Minister of Music who wrote a theological reflection on the aesthetics of the space. Together we decided to create a new screen to cover the newly exposed opening in the chancel wall while honoring the existing millwork. We prepared artwork for fund-raising and worked very closely with the millworker and installer to ensure that the artwork was indeed a match. Lighting was also a major part of this design and the result was a traditional liturgical focus on the cross and baptistry which are the important worship elements for this congregation.