Over the last 12 months, significant progress has occurred with the stained-glass window project and is moving forward:
To Date Recap of Project
- A plan that included cost estimates was developed and approved by the Consistory
- A grant application was submitted on June 1, 2023 to the NY Landmarks Conservancy
- A physical site visit was performed on July 31, 2023 by a Sacred Sites committee member
- FRCB received notification on October 21, 2023 that it was awarded a $15,000 grant
- On December 16, 2023, FRCB received the check for the $15,000 grant from the NY Landmarks Conservancy – Sacred Sites Program
- Vestibule windows returned from being studio restored and were reinstalled on November 14, 2024
- Bell tower rectangular windows were removed on November 30, 2024 for studio restoration
Tentative Schedule Moving Forward
- Depending on weather, sometime in April 2024 the (3) sanctuary Rose windows will be removed for studio restoration
- Soon thereafter, May or June 2024, work will begin on the (12) sanctuary arched windows. The old plexi-glass protective covers will be removed, the exterior frames will be cleaned, scraped, primed, and painted with new exterior trim paint. Finally, new clear vented float glass will be installed.
- Mid-summer 2024, the Rose windows and bell tower windows will be reinstalled, and new clear vented float glass installed.
- Late summer 2024, final touches to finish Phase 1 of the Restoration Project.
Future Fundraising Ideas
- A grant application will be submitted to the Community Foundation of the Greater Capital Region.
- A wall plaque will be created listing donor names making contributions in memory of loved ones.
- Do you have additional suggestions?? Maybe a rummage sale, outdoor concerts, more church dinners?? If you have an idea, share it with a consistory member!
To Conclude
The grant received from the NY Landmarks Conservancy through its Sacred Sites Program further adds validity to FRCB’s belief in the importance of maintaining and restoring our sacred site to continue its rich community history dating back to 1763.
Thanks to all for your support of this project! The finished look should be stunning! Check back for updates!!