by Mike Christensen

Several years ago, someone donated money to Bethany to use for lighting and landscaping improvements to our grounds. When Session receives such donations, the money is put aside in a fund until we are able to utilize the funds consistent with the wishes of the donor. Such money is reserved for the purpose intended and is not used to address needs in the yearly budget of the church.

We are now moving ahead and developing a plan for use of the money that will initially involve four areas of our landscape facing Queen Anne Avenue. Following Session approval in April to move ahead, we are looking at improvements to 1) the west side of the 3 Howe house; 2) around the reader board on the front lawn; 3) along the south side of the Sanctuary; and 4) in front of the Education Wing where the sidewalk splits to go toward the tower and the parlor.

In June, we will have a display in the lobby, showing details of thinking-to-date and an opportunity for congregational input as we move toward beginning phases of the work. When we begin, the congregation will be invited to volunteer on designated Saturdays to help in the movement and installation of plants and groundwork related to lighting.

We anticipate that, as we move into a season following the retrofit at Bethany, these improvements will invite more people into our building and presence and be one more way to say “welcome” to the Queen Anne community.