Houses of Faith Tour Architecturally Significant Religious Structures of Midland October 17, 2015 from 12-4pm A Glossary of Architectural Terms Alden B. Dow Home and Studio A National Historic Landmark Aisle, the side of a separated from the nave proper by a . Ambulatory, passageway around the choir, often a continuation of the side aisles of the nave. The Alden B. Dow Home and Studio is again proud to offer Midland’s Houses of Faith, a , a semi-circular or polygonal vaulted space behind the altar. hands-on exploration of some of the most architecturally significant houses of faith in the , a series of arches carried on piers or . Barrel , semi-cylindrical vault with parallel abutments and of constant cross sections. Midland community. This free tour represents a diverse array of architects and archi- , a rectangular building with a central nave, side aisles separated by , with or tectural styles woven into our city’s character. When describing the buildings in a city, without a . Alden B. Dow said it was at its best when it was “...a concentration of variety”. Although Bay, a vaulted division of a nave, aisle, choir or transept along its longitudinal axis. Buttress, a masonry member projecting from a wall, rising from the ground and counteracting predominately Mid-Century Modern, Midland's architecture offers a wonderful concen- the outward thrust of the roof or vaulting. In , a is a freestanding tration of variety to enjoy. element connected by an arch to the outer wall. This tour is a wonderful opportunity to explore these houses of faith from a design and Canopy, a protective roof above statues. Capital, the head of a . architectural perspective. A panel of architects and designers was assembled to review the Chancel, interchangeable with choir, sometimes the area in front of the altar. 101 houses of faith in our community. In order to be considered, the structure had to be Choir, area at the end of the nave which is reserved for clergy or monks (modern - singers), and designed by an architect, fit into an architectural style, have superior quality of materials which contains the altar and choir stalls. , the exterior wall of a nave above the level of the aisles with windows. and craftsmanship and add richness to our community. Special thanks, to regional archi- Cloister, quadrilateral enclosure surrounded by covered walkways; the center of activity for the tects, Paul Haselhuhn, John Meyer, Tom Reay and Les Tincknell, for their expertise in the inhabitants of a monastery. structure descriptions. Close, the area on which the and subordinate building stand. Crossing, the area of a church where the nave is intersected by the transept. This booklet offers background on each structure and begins to document the incredible Engaged column, a column embedded in a wall, not free standing. architectural heritage of Midland. Enjoy the beauty, serenity and incredible impact of Finial, the topmost portion of a pinnacle, usually sculptured as an elaborate ornament with upright these exceptional houses of faith. stem and cluster of crockets; seen at a distance, it resembles a cross from any angle of vision. Gable, the part of a wall that encloses the end of a pitched roof. Galilee, a chapel or porch at the entrance to a church. All my best, Gallery, an upper story running along the side of a church, open on one side to the interior. Craig McDonald, Director Lancet, a pointed arched window of one opening frequently arranged in groups of two to five. Lantern tower, a tower with windows shedding light into the crossing. Lunette, a semi-circular space above doors and windows, sometimes framed and decorated. Misericord, In the choir stalls of medieval churches, a bracket (often grotesquely or humorously carved) beneath a hinged seat which, when the seat was tipped up, gave some support to a person standing during a lengthy service. Alden B. Dow Home and Studio Narthex, the single-story porch of a church. Nave, the area of a church between the façade and crossing or choir, specifically, the central area A National Historic Landmark, Midland Michigan between the aisles. Niche, a recess in the face of a wall or pier, prepared to receive a statue. Pier, a mass of masonry supporting an arch or vault and distinct from a column. A clustered pier is composed of a number of small columns. Pinnacle, a turrent tapering upward to the top, its gracefulness enhanced by crockets, and top stone called a finial. Pulpitum, a screen dividing the choir from the nave. Often called a rood screen. Predella, the step or platform on which an altar is placed. Portal, a major entrance to church, emphasized by sculpture and decoration. Radiating chapels, chapels leading off from the ambulatory, and arranged in a semi-circular fash- ion. Reredos, the wall or screen at the back of an altar, either in carved stone, wood or metal. Respond, long narrow column or engaged column, mainly in Gothic architecture, which supports the arches and ribs of groan vaults or the profiles of arcade arches. Rib, a structural molding of a vault. Rood screen, the screen dividing the choir from the nave. Sanctuary, the part of the church which contains the high altar. Sedilla, seats in the sanctuary near the altar, usually three in number for clergy. Shaft, the main part of a column, from its base to its capital. Transept, section of a church at right angles to the nave and in front of the choir. Vault, the ceiling of a church formed of concrete, stone in mortar or brick in mortar forming a Tours: Mon-Sat 2pm & Fri-Sat 10am continuous semicircular or pointed arch. Reservations: 1.866.315.7678 www.abdow.org Blessed Sacrament Church, Catholic Description of Religion: Blessed Sacrament Church is a Roman Catholic 3109 Swede Avenue parish, and a member of the Diocese of Saginaw.

Size of Congregation: Approximately 1,750 registered households Use of Building: Architect of Original Structure: Brysselbout, Starke, Hacker, Simon and Associates, Bay City, MI Year Built: 1967 The Church is used for Sunday worship (5:00 p.m. Saturday, 8:30 a.m. and Square Footage of Original Building: 9,003 square feet 11:00 a.m. on Sunday). They also have Mass on Tuesday and Thursday at - Architectural Style: Mid-Twentieth Century Modern 8:30 a.m., celebrate Evening Prayer at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesdays and pray Additions/Modifications: the Rosary at 8:30 a.m. on Saturdays. The church is used to celebrate wed dings, hold funerals and a wide range of other parish activities that takes - placeAdditional in the Information:Parish Center. Blessed There is Sacrament also a parish Parish elementary was established school as on well - as Faith Formation programs for youth through adults. Two modifications have been made to the original worship space. Neither - modification enlarged the square footage of the church. The first modifica November 18, 1951. The first Masses were held in Northeast Intermediate tion involved the Baptismal Font which was redesigned to allow for the im the construction of a nine classroom elementary school and an auditorium/ mersion of adults in 1994. The second modification involved the northwest School’s gymnasium. The groundbreaking for the actual parish site oc entrance. It was redesigned in 2007. The interior doors were moved to curred on Easter Sunday, April 17, 1954. The building project began with provideBuilding better Description: sight lines as one enters the church, and an outside gathering areaBlessed was Sacrament added. was constructed with the Vatican II liturgy of the Church gymnasium that would serve as the church until an actual church building was constructed. The first Mass in the present church was celebrated on August 20, 1967. in mind. Its circular shape was designed by architects Brysselbout, Strarke, Hacker, Simon and Associates of Bay City. All of the marble in the church consistsThe woodwork of travertine throughout marble the obtained church from, with a the quarry exception near Florence, of the exposed Italy. The main marble altar is an elliptically-shaped table on a sculptured base. cedar ceiling, is of solid and veneer walnut. North Carolina Greenstone is used in the facing of the walls. The pews are made from solid oak. The bell- is a 1,000 pound Holland Bell. A feature of the exterior construction is the 97Hopfensperger, foot high steeple a parishioner cross based and in former lantern art windows. teacher Theat Midland cross is Public spotlight ed at night. The church windows were designed and constructed by James Schools, and consists of faceted glass, hand set in aluminum frames. Description of Religion: The Bertha E.R. Strosacker - Memorial Presbyterian Church terian is part of the ReformedMemorial branch Presbyterian of the Protestant Church faith is affiliated with roots with in 1310 Ashman Street the Presbyterian Church of the United States of America (PCUSA). Presby Scotland,traditional France music, and the Holland. Lord’s Supper As a Reformed and infant church baptism; they a commitmenthave a theology of grounded in the Bible and in Christ: a worship service oriented around service to the community and to the world. Presbyterianism derived its name in the sixteenth century from its (at the time)presbyters unique form of church government; instead of being controlled by the bishops and kings, the - church is governed by elected elders (or in Greek ). Even today the church operates through elected officials who oversee various commit tees dedicated to social justice, Christian education, music and the arts and other expressions of our faith. Although small in numbers, Presbyterianism has been a very influential presence in America.

Size of Congregation: Architect of Original Structure: 852 members Year Built: 1951 - 1953 Aymar Embury II (Edward Coe Embury, Associated)Square Footage New ofYork Original City, NY Building: 39,000 square feet Architectural Style: Additions/Modifications: Use of Building: Georgian - Building Description: 1961-Education Wing, Harold H. Fisher and Associates, Detroit, MI. 41,000 square feet addition Because the church is committed to serving the community, they encour Presbyterian Church wanted the building to embody classical beauty, stabil- age outside groups to use the facilities. Beyond their own programs, the Designed in the wake of the Second World War, the architects of Memorial- building houses a food pantry, cooperative preschool, Boy Scout Troop 765, tional; the sanctuary dominates the central space with wings extending out the regional headquarters of Young Life, Happy Diners (an afternoon meal ity and peace. The Romanesque layout of the original church is very tradi provided by Midland Senior Services), Kinship Caregivers (an organization for relatives raising young children), Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon both sides forming the shape of a cross. The sanctuary itself is composed of and Al-Ateen all on a weekly basis. They also provide facilities on a less classical pillars, a soaring chancel and beautiful opaque windows. There is a regularAdditional basis Information: for Shelter House, the Michigan Jazz Trail, Project Blue Light, a formal parlor with Georgian furniture and hand blocked Colonial wallpaper. semi-annual Grief Recovery Group, and Vacation Bible School. - The side chapel and assembly room are decorated in themes that evoke a distinct Presbyterian (and Huguenot) heritage. Several pieces of original In 2012 Memorial Presbyterian Church dedicated a new fifty-five rank or furniture were licensed replicas from Williamsburg. gan from Orgues Létourneau (Québec). Chapel Lane Presbyterian Church designed by the architect. The use of edge grain fir for the woodwork adds 5501 Jefferson Avenue to the warmth of the space. Adjacent to the back of the nave through folding doors is an overflow and fellowship space with borrowed light through the window over the entrance from the nave to the hall. Building wings from the- central fellowship space are for classrooms, offices, a library and a kitchen. Alongcrosses the at exterior,the front a of band the siteof clerestory replace the windows typical abovesteeple door to identify height, this protect ed by roof overhangs, allows for wall space and room lighting. Three steel Description of Religion: simple, quiet mid-century house of worship. - Chapel Lane Presbyterian Church is affiliated withpresbyters the Presbyterian Church (USA), which is part of the Reformed Branch of Protestantism. The PC(U SA) is governed by elected elders (from the Greek ) and observes two sacraments: communion and baptism. Membership in the church is achieved through an individual’sMission confession Statement: of faith Celebrating in Jesus ourChrist diversity as Lord of andgifts, Savior. we seek The to localserve churchChrist by is servingpart of theothers Synod with of grace, the Covenant love and and laughter. the Presbytery of Lake Huron.

Size of congregation: Previous Names: 245 members Architect of OriginalJefferson Structure: Avenue Presbyterian Chapel, (12/1958 – 1960), whenYear Built: the congregation met at Siebert Elementary School Square Footage of Original Structure: Francis E. “Red” Warner, Midland, MI 1962 11,200 square feet NewArchitectural Addition: Style:In 2002 Mid-Twentieth the new “Addition Century and Modern Renovation” added 2,300 squareAdditions/Modifications: feet and remodeled a total of 5,000 square feet. Uses of Building: Wigen, Tincknell Meyer and Associates, Inc., Architects and Planners, of Saginaw, Michigan, completed an addition and renovation to Chapel Lane - Chapel Lane Presbyterian Church is used regularly for worship services, Presbyterian Church in 2002. A total of 5,000 square feet was involved, with- Christian education, youth group meetings and activities, church dinners a resulting additional 2,300 square feet. The addition provided a new chil and social events, Bible Study Groups, Vacation Bible School, quilters' Buildingdren’s nursery, Description: kitchen, mechanical room, three offices and handicapped-ac groups, weddings, baptisms, funerals and musical events, including recitals cessible bathrooms. - and concerts. It has been the location of a Boy Scout Troop, the Suzuki Music Program and a pre-school. The church building hosts community group Located in a residential area, this cross-shaped church floor plan is diago meetings on a regular basis. It hosts an annual Cajun Dinner fund raiser nally situated to allow various seasonal lighting through the building's many for disaster relief. Chapel Lane is the home of the Grove Music Festival, - window locations. The form of the church nave is constructed of steep- including the Ed Carney Memorial Jazz Concert series. The combination of pitch “gull wing” laminated wood arches with the overhangs protecting the excellent acoustics in the sanctuary, a Steinway Grand Piano and a hand large clear glass windows and the exterior entrance walkways. The wood icapped-accessibleAdditional Information: building provides a desirable location for a variety of roof planks are exposed as the interior ceiling. The inside brick walls are musical events. - the same warm brick used for the exterior construction. The view from the naveon the windows, chancel’s inserted simple woodwith colored cross, communion glass and ventilating table and sash,pulpit are that gardens were In 2014 Chapel Lane added an electronic sign in front of the church to pro that shield the noise from the street. The center aisle with pews focuses vide information about worship services and special events. Their website, chapellane.org, provides additional detailed information. First Baptist Church of Midland 915 East Sugnet Road uses a perimeter of old growth trees and gardens to define its place. The gardenDescription offers of a sereneReligion: environment for meditation and communication away from busy roads and interior spaces. The church is affiliated with the American Baptist Churches USA, National Council of Churches, and the Baptist World Alliance. The vision statement of First Baptist Church of Midland states, “We are a church partnering with God by intentionally building the Kingdom of God, through abiding in Christ, discerning God’s will and discipling others in the power of the Holy Spirit."

Size of Congregation: Architect of Original Structure: Year Built: 1956 243 active members Square Footage of Original Structure: Frantz and Spence, Saginaw, MI Architectural Style: Mid-Twentieth Century Modern Uses of Building: Additions/Modifications: 27,800 square feet A 3,600 square feet educational wing designed by Spence and Smith Archi- - - Boy Scout Troop 763- Monday Evenings, Chinese School-Sunday After tectsBuilding of Saginaw Description: was added in 1967. The church’s front entry was modified noons, Head Start Preschool- Monday through Friday, Alcoholics Anon inAs 1986 with toso be many barrier churches, free. it sits on a corner acting both as an anchor and ymous - Sunday Afternoons, Girls on the Run - Monday through Friday, September-NovemberAwards or Recognitions: and March-May, Yoga Tuesday-Thursday, Daisy Troop classic example of mid-century modern design from the era it’s named - Wednesdays. Used by local music teachers as a space for music lessons. Additional Information: gateway into its community. The architecture stands on this corner as a City of Midland 2008 Beautification Award for non-residential landscaping. after. The Church welcomes you with a large portico that denotes the entry The church was organized in 1869. The present into the narthex. The walls of the nave take the form of a parallelogram, building is the congregation’s third. almost as if they’ve been slid along their foundations ever so slightly. This creates a floor plan devoid of major 90-degree corners, a shape that aids the interior acoustics of the sanctuary and gives its exterior a distinct and subtlewindows variation deconstruct to a traditional what we traditionallyform. Large considerwindows as on stained either sideglass of win the- nave are filled with select rectangle-shaped panels of colored glass. These elements for the mid-century architectural language from our region are the dows enhance the majestic natural light that enters into the space. Common aluminum window and door frames, redwood colored trim and classic rose colored brick in what is called a “common” bond pattern, mill finished white stucco soffits. The traditional elements of the salvaged stained glass windows in the chapel, brought over from the previous church, stand in elegant contrast to the deconstructed, mid-century elements of the building. Finally, the courtyard garden area acts as one of the most serene spaces on this campus. Not completely surrounded by brick and glass walls, it also First United Methodist Church - 315 West Larkin Street The two courtyards provide different impressions as well. One is richly landscaped and the other has a large water feature as its focus. The for - tress-like design concept Mr. Dow chose for the First United Methodist Church skillfully takes a large, multi-level facility and maintains a comfort - able human scale throughout. Touring the whole facility is the best way to appreciateDescription what of Religion: this design has to offer the user. It provides genuine sanctu ary and is truly a great piece of architecture. Mission Statement: We are a dynamic faith community, seeking to follow WeChrist’s are partexample of the of Unitedloving God,Methodist nurturing Church. one another, and serving the world. To all who would know God and do God’s will... to all who would live and serve to make a Christian world...to all who seek comfort and would find rest... to old and young, wise and unlearned, rich and poor, saint and sinner, this church opens wide its doors and, in the name of Jesus bids you welcome.

Size of Congregation: Architect of Original Structure: 1,925 members Year Built: Alden B. Dow, Alden B. Dow Associates Inc.,Square Midland Footage MI of Original Structure: 65,000 square feet Architectural 1949 Style: - 1950 Mid-Twentieth sanctuary, lower Century level Modern Fellowship Hall and kitchen Additions/Modifications: Midland, MI 1953-Chapel, Reflecting Pool, lower level classrooms-Alden B. Dow, 1955-Parlor, Cloister Walk, Preschool, Courtyard-Alden B. Dow, Midland, MI 1967-1968 - Office Area, Little Theater, McKay/Price Library, Choir Room, Uses of Building: Hearth Room, classrooms, custodian’s apartment - Dow, Howell, Gillmore, Associates,Building Description: Inc., Midland, MI 2011-Apartment converted to Fresh Aire Counseling Center. - Themen’s church and women’s is used seven fellowships, days a weekyouth for roll church bakes, and semi-annual non-church rummage activities. Approachinglanguage of the this brick church, and onecopper is impressed facades mask by the the city-block-sized, elegant complexity clois of Church activities include Sunday and Wednesday worship services, youth, tered envelope that shelters what is taking place inside. The simple form sales, LOGOS, rehearsals, board and committee meetings, United Methodist District and Conference meetings and events. Non-church functions include- its interior space. Upon entering, a rich variety of spaces unfold around munity Health Camp, and a host of other regular and special community two separate courtyards. They define the Worship Space, Chapel and other a Boy Scout Troop and Girl Scout events, English as a Second Language support spaces. What appears to be a handsomely "stern" exterior becomes classes, Sunday Friendship Lunch, AA and NA meetings, I Know Me com a space filled with natural day lighting that is regal as well as warm and meetingsAwards or and Recognitions: activities. In addition, bridal and baby showers, birthday and inviting. Typical with Alden Dow buildings, the detailing is impeccable and 1956 - Award of Merit from the American Institute of Architects the craftsmanship top shelf. The user enters a world much detached from anniversary celebrations and other private parties are held at the church. the hustle and bustle of the downtown environment that surrounds the building. The quiet solitude of the Chapel is complemented by the large, light-filled Worship Space. The space provides the congregation with an 1958 - featured in Together, a national denominational magazine excellent venue to worship and conduct fellowship activities. 1959 - American Architects’ Award of Excellence Holy Family Episcopal Church - when Christianity was brought to England. The Episcopal Church is Prot - 4611 North Swede Road estant yet considers itself Catholic. Episcopalians follow Jesus Christ, with both worship and mission in Christ’s name. In Jesus, They find that the na ture of God is love, and through baptism, they share in His victory over sin and death. It is their foundation, understood through tradition and reason, containing all things necessary for salvation. Their worship is filled with Scripture from beginning to end.

Size of Congregation: 30 Architect of Original Structure: Year Built: 1959 Square Footage of Original Building: Alden 3,000 B. Dow, square Inc, Midland, feet MI Architectural Style: Mid-Twentieth Century Modern Additions/Modification: Building Description: 2008 Remodel, Tom Downs and David Lackey - - This two story lozenge-shaped building with its compact floor plan is con structedintroduces in thea hill triangle site, providing theme used worship by the space building on the brickwork first floor forms and educa inside tional rooms in the lower level. The welcoming pointed entrance canopy - and out. The park location allows large expanses of clear glass between di amond-shaped brick columns. The low-pitch roof completes the simplified form. The narthex with a labyrinth floor pattern opens to a simple pointed plaster ceiling and spaced wooden beams in the body of the church. The large windowsfrom the narthex above the and narthex continues entrances to the formalprovide sanctuary light for this at the service front areaof the and the gathering space. The floor space is divided with informal gathering room. The arrangement of the pews defines the diamond-shaped sanctuary worship area. Light from the recessed chancel windows accents the cross and the altar. The use of wood at the sides of the sanctuary complements Uses of Building: the brick for a warm serene religious setting. The educational space has large, clear glass openings to a walk out level created by the bowl-shaped landscape.Description The of Religion:unusual landscaping form surrounds the church with a city Sunday – worship pastoral setting. Weekdays – Montessori School Parties: birthdays, graduation, showers – week days and weekends The Episcopal Church began as the Church of England in the 2nd century Workshops – weekends, weekdays Holy Scripture Lutheran Church Buffalo, New York. To the left of the front door on the Portico is a display 4525 West Main Street ofDescription several bricks of Religion: from the original 1723 “Old North” Church of Paul Revere fame,We hold Boston the Bible , Massachusetts. to be the verbally inspired Word of God, inerrant in all its part and the sole source of doctrine for faith and life. (2 Timothy 3:16,16). We believe in one Triune God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, who is our Creator, Redeem- er and Sanctifier. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mathew 28:19) We hold and teach that man is not the chance product of evolutionary processes, but through Adam’s fall into sin is now by nature corrupt, alienated from God, and totally incapable of saving himself. (Romans 3:28; Ephesians 2:1-3, 11-13) We believe and proclaim that all mankind was redeemed from sin, death, hell and the devil by the innocent life, substitutionary death and triumphant resurrection of Jesus Christ. Through Him forgiveness of sins, life and salvation are now offered freely in the Gospel and are received by faith alone. (Romans 5:6-10; 3:28) We look forward to the personal return of the Savior who will judge both the living and the dead, taking all who believe in Him home to heaven. (Titus 2:11-15)

Size of Congregation: Architect of Original Structure: Year Built: 150 active members Square Footage of Original Structure: Merrit, Cole & McCallum, Farmington, MI Architectural 1972 Style: (Congregation organized in January, 1969) Building Description: 20,000 square feet Georgian was held by all Protestants to be the inerrant authority for doctrine and Mission Statement: We exist to carry out the will of God who has commanded us to The building reflects the classic architecture of Orthodoxy when the Bible proclaim the good news of Salvation through Jesus Christ into all the world. To accom- plish this we unite in worship and join together in Christian Fellowship. We are affiliat- life. This identification is signaled also by the congregation’s name: Holy ed with the Evangelical Lutheran Synod, a federation of Lutheran churches united by a Scripture Lutheran Church. In a world that often darkly exalts the earthly, a common love of God’s Word. It is dedicated to spreading and defending the three great soaring white steeple points toward heaven for hope, directing all upward- principles- The Word Alone, Grace Alone, Faith Alone-which are the heritage of the to God, in whom alone is peace. The cross and orb surmounting the steeple Lutheran Church. We grow in God’s grace through the study of the Bible. We witness symbolize the ultimate victory of Christ’s Cross over the world. In the inte to the world that Jesus Christ became everyone’s Savior through the study of the Bible. rior, the dominant white bespeaks the holiness of God, focusing on the Bible We witness to the world that Jesus Christ became everyone’s Savior through His perfect and sword-cross, weapon of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:17). The pulpit, large life, sacrificial death and triumphant resurrection. We desire to share the comforting andin the elevated, interior, declares to the Ionic the importancecolumns on ofthe the exterior, proclaimed bequeathing word in an authentic aura confidence that everyone can be certain of eternal salvation through repentance of sin Lutheran worship. Stately columns rise majestically to Corinthian capitals and faith in Jesus Christ. Uses of Building: of loftiness and dignity. The edifice architecturally reinforces the church's theological philosophy. The architect and building committee achieved - - an inviting warmth and satisfying aesthetic which provides an agreeable Activities include Worship Services, Sunday School, Bible Study, Nursery setting for both worship and Word. The pipe organ, designed to accompa facilities, Youth Group, Vacation Bible School, Ladies Guild, Fellowship gath ny the Lutheran Liturgy, was built by the Schlicker Organ Company, Inc., of erings, outreach into the community and the world. Nease Memorial Church of the Nazarene starsAdditions/Modification: of the heavens are hung above you. All these features were designed 5315 Isabella Road to heighten the worship and glory of God within the space. There have been two more building projects since the original building was completed. The East-wing classroom was built in 1966 and it’s dedication wasbudget February of $50,000 26 1967. The third building project included the fellowship hall,Description kitchen andof Religion: new heating system which was completed in 1972 with a The Church of the Nazarene is an Evangelical Christian denomination. Since its inception, the Church of the Nazarene -has indicated that its mission is “to respond to the Great Commission of Christ to go and make disciples of all nations." (Matthew 28:19) The denomina tional vision is “to be a disciple-making church, an international community of faith, in the Wesleyan-Holiness tradition.”

Size of Congregation: Architect of Original Structure: Year Built: Average 60-75 people. Square Footage of Original Building: Alden 3,600 B. Dow, square Inc., Midland,feet MI Architectural1962 Style: Mid-Twentieth Century Modern Building Description:

The church building sits on an isolated flat site, with few trees near the structure. The modern design appears to grow from the earth as its low, flat roofwith linea compound at the perimeter roof structure of the sanctuarythat appears gives structurally way to the complex soaring risingpyramid structure that reaches towards the heavens. The building form is simple, Uses of Building: over a base of masonry walls. The building corners set in and constructed of wood and glass, form deep overhangs, supported by a single slender Sunday there is a Christian living class, morning service column that begins to disappear. This allows the corners with their floating and an evening service. Wednesday Bible study and youth groups. overhangs, to be the connection from outdoors to inside, for both light- and people. In a similar way, the pyramidal eyebrow windows at the pinnacle of the roof let sunlight into the sanctuary from above, illuminating the ex posed internal roof structure and providing “heavenly glory” into the space. The interior structure is complex upon first impression, but it is elegantly detailed with simple clean lines. Common construction materials such as dimensional lumber and plywood are used by architect Alden B. Dow to accentuate the height of the sanctuary and provide a warm and familiar environment for worship. From the moment you walk in, everything in the sanctuary adds to the vertical nature of the space. Architectural elements such as low-perimeter soffits, recessed sanctuary floor and the detailing in the wood panels move your focus upward. In the center of the sanctuary hangs a custom light fixture designed for just this space, glowing as if the St. John’s Episcopal Church, Midland a truly unique structure for its time which continues to impress contempo- 405 N. Saginaw Road Additions/Modification: rary visitors with its craftsmanship, design expertise and timeless detailing. Chancel renovations and addition of current Ministry Center, designed by - Dow, Howell, Gillmore, Associates Inc., Midland, MI 2001. The altar was moved forward and the choir was relocated from its sides to a gradually el evated area behind it. A wooden floor replaced the original linoleum in the chancel and the communion rail was also moved forward. In recent years, pewsDescription at the front of Religion: of the church were modified for wheelchair-accessible seating. continuously offered worship St. John’s and Christian is an Episcopal formation Church in the and tradition a member of the of the Diocese of Eastern Michigan. First established in 1867, St. John’s has Episcopal Church and worldwide Anglican Communion since its founding. - St. John’s engages in Christian service and witness that is focused locally and globally. Longstanding local outreach ministries include St. John’s Epis copal Cooperative Preschool and SAMS Pantry, a founding member of the - Midland County Emergency Food Pantry Network. Currently, their mission statement is “Linking Lives in the Love of Christ” and are guided by the fol lowing statement of identity, “We joyfully gather to pray, worship, learn and serve as we seek to follow Jesus, and invite all to join us on a sacred journey of hope and transformation.” Size of Congregation: -

Architect of Original Structure:About 200 active households, with an average Sun dayYear attendance Built: 1951 of about 170 individuals. Square Footage of Original Building: Alden 14,000 B. Dow square Inc., Midland, feet with MI 14,000 square feet of basement Architectural Style: Mid-Twentieth Century Modern Building Description: The architectural expression of all the spaces found here celebrate natu- ral day lighting as a means to reinforce worship, fellowship, learning and certain structural elements to create unique spaces, complementing the contemplation. The form language employs nontraditional detailing of architect’s vision. The folded plate roof system over the Fellowship Center is elegantly realized to express the simplicity of the form from both the - exterior and the interior. Artificial cove lighting along both sides of the Uses of Building: - Nave, together with the clerestory windows at the Sanctuary section of the reach and stewardship ministries include: Bible Study, men’s and women’s church, provide a light-filled upper gallery that is reminiscent of the charac worship space demonstrates modern detailing that allows the windows to Worship services, regular formation, fellowship, out - ter achieved Gothic with the introduction of clerestory windows - within their structures. The window wall on the southwest elevation of the study groups, children’s and youth formation, Samaritan Fund (drop-in out classes, boy scouts, Vestry Meetings and committee meetings for Buildings bridgein new betweenbuildings, both but flooris uncommon levels without to encounter interruption, in a structure while maintaining built in the reach), AA meetings, Love Knots, Prayer Shawl, Daughters of the King, Cen tering Prayer groups, St. Martha’s Guild, reception and luncheons, preschool separation between the floors. This is a technique that can be seen regularly Awards or Recognitions: & Grounds, Endowment, Finance & Administration. 1950s. As is the case with other religious facilities designed by Mr. Dow, the Additional Information: composition is gathered around a cloistered courtyard that is private from public view but opens up to the adjacent spaces these take advantage of the 1998-City of Midland Appreciation of Beautification Award exposure with floor to ceiling glass. Monumental-sized glazed wall sections with matching interior and exterior floor elevations, directly connect inside St. John’s was the first Episcopal Church ever to be built in Midland, MI. and outside space. These and other details make St. John’s Episcopal Church Alden B. Dow Incorporated parts of St. John’s first home, a renovated barn, into Elliott Chapel in the current structure’s lower level. Trinity Lutheran Church asthere one are family, two onefree congregationstanding brick sharing walls, Intogether. order for Each these beam walls in tothe work church 3701 Jefferson Avenue forms a triangle, and takes up the Trinity theme. At the front of the church without falling down, there had to be a collaborative effort between the builders and Dow Chemical to find a mastic/mortar that would work with the bricks, giving enough to not be brittle, yet strong enough to keep the - wall standing. The windows are of faceted glass, with those on the north side representing God the Father, the Creator. He is represented symboli cally, especially in the items of His creation, as expressed in the first article of the Apostles Creed. The second article of the Creed is represented by a triangular figure of the resurrected Christ. Carved in Italy, it is mounted on thebasic red materials brick wall were far usedabove on the the altar. exterior Windows of the onchurch, the south a symbol side depictdesigned the Holy Spirit as represented in the third article of the Apostles Creed. Three - sented by the traditional hand of creation, Christ by the cross and the Holy by a member of the congregation, Eugene Ulmanis. God the Father is repre - Spirit by the dove. After conceiving the design, Ulmanis carved it full-sized out of Styrofoam. It was then shipped to an ecclesiastical arts firm in Chica goawarded where theit was Saginaw reproduced Valley inChapter, pounded American copper. Institute The church of Architects was designed merit by Prine, Toshach, Spears Architects and Engineers of Saginaw and was awardDescription in January, of Religion: 1967. It Lutheran, was dedicated Protestant during a month-long celebration Size of Congregation: in October, 1965. Architect of Original Structure: Toshach, Prine and Spears of Saginaw, MI 1,800 members, 760 families. Year Built: (nowSquare known Footage as TSSF of Original Architects Building: after a couple of mergers) Architectural 1963 Style: (groundbreaking) 1964 (dedication) Additions/Modification: 29,670 square feet Post-War Modern 1955 to 1998 - designed by Jeffery A. Parker, Architect, of Grand Rapids, MI Constructed by Helger Construction of Midland, MI. Single-story building- addition (which also includes a basement level), to accommodate a new foyer, nurseries, Family Activity Center with a commercial kitchen, class rooms,Building music Description: suite, child daycare center, administrative suite and exterior drop-off area. - “Three”truncated and triangle, “four” arethe criticalfour sides Biblical represent symbols the andworld are (four both corners used exten of the sively in Trinity Lutheran Church. The Church’s four-sided base rises in a - Uses of Building: earth, four directions, winds, etc.) and the flattened triangle represents the Blessed Trinity. The triangle, traditional symbol of the Trinity, is repro ducedsacraments many of times baptism in many and ways.Holy Communion, The altar itself with is thea large baptismal triangle font with locat - The building is used daily. Among the groups that meet are: Fibromyalgia one point directed toward the congregation. It is an altar emphasizing the Group, Kiwanis, Midland Area Homes, Boy Scouts, Girls Scouts, Brownies, back sides, so that the altar becomes a Communion table when members and many others who use the facilities for meetings. There are also special ed in the angle pointing to the congregation. There are kneelers on the two concertsto many outreachgiven by someprograms of the including Midland dinners School Choirsand luncheons and groups for thoseThere in Communion on a particular Sunday are included as the communicants face is an Ecumenical Thanksgiving service every year, and the doors are open of the congregation are gathered around it. Even those who do not receive members of the congregation at the same time reminds all that when the need.Awards Midland or Recognitions: Mobile Food Pantry uses the church for food distribution each other and the other members of the congregation. Facing the altar and twice a year. There is Preschool during the fall. people commune with God they do not just individually but corporately. It January, 1967 - Saginaw Valley Chapter, American Institute of Architects’ is the act of communing with God and one another, identifying the people Merit Award. United Church of Christ Description of Religion: built by John Brombaugh of Ohio. 4100 Chestnut Hill Drive the United Church of Christ denomination which was created in 1957 with The United Church of Christ, Midland was founded in 1960. It belongs to the joining of four historic Reformation churches: Congregational, Christian, German Evangelical, and German reformed. The United Church of Christ, Midland has always been at the forefront of issues of social justice. In 2004 thisand congregationministry of the voted church, to become regardless Open of andgender, Affirming sexual whichorientation, means race, that they joyfully welcome all who seek to follow Jesus into the life, leadership age, and ethnic background, difference in ability or family configuration.

Size of Congregation: Architect of Original Structure: 348 members Year Built: Charles Blacklock and Robert Schwartz of SchwartzSquare Footage and Blacklock, of Original Midland, Building: MI Approximately 3,600 square feet Architectural 1962 Style: (groundbreaking) Mid-Twentieth 1964Century (dedication) Modern Additions/Modification: -

1970 - A kitchen, Choir Room, offices and classrooms were added. The ar chitectsBuilding were Description: Blacklock and Schwartz. 1983 - A fellowship hall was added. Robert Schwartz, Midland, MI. Uses of Building: - From the first moment you see this dynamic structure it invites interest and Union, Red Hat Society, Midland Retired Music Teachers, Cub Scouts, as well exploration. Masterfully woven into its surroundings, the building is a stun Alcoholics Anonymous, Phi Kappa, Paint and Palette, Daughters of the ning example of organic, Mid Twentieth Century Design. Architects, Robert- Awards or Recognitions: Schwartz and Charles Blacklock created a soaring structure that is open and as various recitals and concerts. free while at the same time comforting and intimate. It is a masterful com bination of innovative materials, new technologies and daring and playful- 2003Additional - City ofInformation: Midland Appreciation of Beautification Award. This award artistry. The roof over the sanctuary is a hyperbolic paraboloid supported wasRecently given the for sanctuary beautification was repainted,of the church new grounds. carpeting was installed, the by two buttresses are held together beneath the floor by a reinforced con pews were refurbished and reupholstered, a new top was installed on the crete beam. The roof contains 157 tons of light-weight concrete reinforced communion table and communion rails, a parlor and new nursery were with 23 tons of steel in one continuous pour, with trucks coming from all over the area, all day. The windows in the sanctuary are clear glass which ties the building to the outside world. Each season of the year provides a created, and the fellowship hall was painted. The majority of this work was beautiful canvas for the worship space. The color scheme in the sanctuary completed by members of the congregation. isbuilt based single-manual on the liturgical tracker colors, organ, and patterned includes afterpurple the carpet small andpipe red organs pews. of This same color scheme is used throughout the building. In 1977 a custom sixteenth and seventeenth century Germany, was installed. This organ was Unitarian Universalist a source to allow natural light in, creating architecture that is more inward Fellowship of Midland facing than outward looking, and allowing for the inward reflection of one’s 6220 Jefferson Avenue own self. The worship space is a simple square with a high ceiling, making - the space appear to have an almost equal ratio of volume to footprint. Here- erswindows through at eyeskylights, level encourage which illuminate outward the views, high connectingceilings and nature architectural to the in terior. Additional natural light comes from above and behind the worship Description of Religion: detailing of the space. Unitarian Universalism has its roots in ancient Christianity. Unitarians believe in one God and did not support the notion ofand the now Trinity. include Universalists a wide range believe of members, that a loving from GodChristians, would notBuddhists, create Hell, and that all people are eventually saved. The two churches merged in 1961, - Pagans, Humanists, Agnostics to Atheists. It is a non-creedal faith. Each congregation is free to affirm and promote seven principles that are re viewedrelations; and acceptance modified everyof one 20 another years. and These encouragement principles include: to spiritual The inherent growth worthin our congregations;and dignity of every a free person; and responsible justice, equity search and for compassion truth and meaning; in human the right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within con- gregations and in society at large; the goal of world community with peace,

liberty, and justice for all; and respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.

Size of Congregation: Architect of Original Structure: MI 125 members, plus another 150 or so friends Year Built: 1961 Jackson B. Hallett, Architect AIA, Midland, Square Footage of Original Building: Architectural Style: Mid-Twentieth Century Modern Additions and Modifications: - 2,900 square feet

1992-5,200Building Description: square feet addition including sanctuary, kitchen, church offices andThe coatUnitarian room Church and lobby. represents modern architecture with early modern - anced relationship of forms and materials that are reminiscent of the Unity forms derived from the Arts and Crafts design movement. There is a bal Templebrow acts by as Frank a fascia Lloyd and Wright, wraps located much of in the Oak perimeter Park, Illinois. of the building, uni- Sturdy piers guard the church entrance and support its heavy brow. This Uses of Building: Many small group ministries meet during the week fying the masonry, wood and glass elements that make up its facade. White painted rectilinear form, concrete block create a solid neutral canvas which including our Three Jewels Buddhist Sangha, the Ancient Shores Covenant contrasts to the soft and warm toned wood elements. The horizontal lines- of Unitarian Universalist Pagans, our addictions ministry group Seekers of the wood walls and fascia anchor off these heavy, white elements creating Practicing Addiction Recovery in Community (SPARC), Interweave (group a bridge from structure to nature. The glass windows have been strategi that promotes gay and trans-gender spirituality), various classes and some cally placed to allow for only limited, strategic outward views, act more as outside groups like AA.