Thursday, August 23, 2012

Site Planning Success!

The Site Planning Hearing was a success. The Borough of Longport unanimously approved our site plan and variance requests. One of the memorable quotes was on the threshold for a D variance that we "enhance the public good." All agreed that we have been doing so for over a century. The Borough applauded our efforts and asked about future fundraising activities. City Engineer Dick Carter was really helpful explaining the regulations and his interpretations. Thanks to all for the help and warm wishes!

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Redeemer vowed to be rebuilt

From the Downbeach Current:

http://www.shorenewstoday.com/snt/news/index.php/downbeach-/longport-margate-ventnor-general-news/28588-redeemer-vowed-to-be-rebuilt.html


Redeemer vowed to be rebuilt

LONGPORT – The June 30 derecho wreaked havoc everywhere but one very painful scar left behind is the empty lot at 20th and Atlantic avenues where the HistoricChurch of the Redeemer stood since 1908. A lightening strike is believed to be the culprit that helped destroy the wooden mission style church.

By the Monday following the fire it was determined that what had not been consumed by the flames was structurally unsound and in jeopardy of collapse and had to be demolished.  Tom Subranni of the Church of the Redeemer Council said they would rebuild on the same location.
The faithful who worship each Sunday from Fathers Day until Labor Day at the historic church have been pushed by Mother Nature but they have not bent. According to Subranni, services have continued every Sunday under a tent erected on the lawn of the rectory on 20th Avenue.
“The church was fully insured and we are now working on the rebuilding process, such as applying for site plan approval, meeting with our architect, talking with the insurance folks and other similar tasks,” said Subranni Sunday, Aug. 12.
They have an ambitious plan in mind and hope to have the new church dedicated before the end of the 2013 season, which would end the Sunday of Labor Day weekend.
The stained glass windows of The Church of the Redeemer were a big part of charm and one of its most cherished assets. Subranni said they did have insurance on the windows. “The Willet-Hauser Architectural Stained Glass Co. found the original working drawings and will be engaged to recreate them in the same way as they were created many, many years ago. Their collection of antique stained glass will be used in the creation of the new windows,” said Subranni.
Those windows were commissioned by one time Longport Mayor Edwin Lavino in the 1930s.
While the Church of the Redeemer is non-denominational it falls under the Episcopal Diocese of Trenton and Subranni said, “The Bishop and the Diocese fully support the plans to bring the Church of the Redeemer back to life and a place of peace and worship.”
Subranni added, “We would like folks to know that their beloved Church of the Redeemer will be rebuilt in the same style as before. Many people stopped to say how much they missed the church but had never stepped foot in it. When the church is rebuilt we would like these many kind folks to visit us often. The Guild Hall will be designed and available for interdenominational use and for other community activities. This will be a significant benefit to the residents of Longport and surrounding communities.”

Site Planning CORRECTION

There is a Site Planning Hearing at City Hall on Wednesday, August 22nd at 7pm.  A lot like Sundays, all are welcome.

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Piano for the Music Department

The Valetta family of Brigantine gave us the piano used in last week's service. We give them a sincere and hearty thanks for their kind generosity.

Monday, August 6, 2012

Rebuilding efforts continue.

Rebuilding efforts continue.  There is a Site Planning Hearing at City Hall on August 23rd at 7pm.  All is progressing nicely.

Thursday, August 2, 2012

We've been meaning to post this picture for some time.
A little advertising never hurts... Rev. Baker ran the Longport Mile wearing his collar. The back of his shirt read "Service at 10am".