ROTTERDAM — A grand reopening, dedication and dinner at Messiah Lutheran Church, marking the completion of a large-scale accessibility project, will take place at 3 p.m. Sunday at 2850 Guilderland Ave.
During the darkest days of COVID in 2021, church members worked hard to stay connected with their fellow members and friends and set an audacious goal to raise over $570,000 to make their Faith Center more welcoming for people of all backgrounds and abilities, said the church pastor, the Rev. Dustin Longmire.
What: Grand reopening, dedication and dinner
Where: Messiah Lutheran Church, 2850 Guilderland Ave., Schenectady (Rotterdam), NY 12306
When: 3 p.m. Sunday, June 11
While the congregation had already made strides to be a place of welcome for members of the LGBTQIA community, people of all races, socioeconomic backgrounds and more, full accessibility throughout the building for people with disabilities became a top priority, Longmire said.
That welcoming place is now reflected in a new grand entrance, a three-story lift, two accessible all-gender restroom stalls, public art gallery space and other amenities. The project was designed by Nexus Creative Designs and built by Manchester Homes, LLC. Sunday’s event is organized by the Capital Region Chamber.
Leaders from across the Capital Region will be on hand. All neighbors are invited to attend, the church said.
“It’s an honor to be a part of the grand reopening celebration for Messiah Lutheran Church in my hometown of Rotterdam, which has served as a symbol of inclusivity, love, and support,” said Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, who will offer remarks at the event, in a statement. “Churches are the pillars of their communities and Messiah Lutheran Church has been a shining example for nearly a century and a testament that through faith and dedication, new beginnings are…
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