Renovations begin at Christ Church

WARWICK — As the Village of Warwick approaches its 150th anniversary, Christ Church will be preparing for its own celebration of 150 years.
The church building which was dedicated in 1867, was designed in the Carpenter Gothic style - a rural architectural design built in wood but inspired by authentic Gothic stone structures.
A major renovation is planned for the entire property, located at 50 South St., but the first step in the process will be a renovation to the church doors.
The Rev. Jim Erwin joined Christ Church in 2012 and since then there has been a steady increase in the congregation. That growth along with the age of the buildings led to the decision for the renovation.
“The planned updates will improve the efficiency of the building," Erwin said, "and provide an opportunity for our church to be a welcoming meeting place for the entire Warwick community.”
The church has received a matching grant from the New York Landmarks Conservancy’s Sacred Sites Program.
The first phase of the renovation will be to refurbish the front and side doorways and to shore up trim surrounding the majestic stained glass window above the front door.
The project is being managed by local general contractor, Greenway Technologies of Warwick. Greenway makes it a practice to hire local labor and has already brought Thom Woglom Construction on board as the carpenter and CertaPro has been hired as the painter.
“The front door will be replaced with an energy-efficient door that is custom fit to resemble the current door," Thom Woglom said. "The tulip-shaped side door which is original to the church will look the same but needs to be refurbished.”
The full-scale structural renovation is slated to begin in the near future. This part of the plan will provide full handicap access and expand the area that is used for various community outreach ministries and educational space.
Fund-raising is underway for that aspect of the project – it will be financed in large part by pledges from the congregation, support from the Episcopal Diocese of New York and with savings.
Donations for this important renewal will be gratefully accepted; those interested to learn more about contributing are encouraged to contact the rector at 845-986-3440.
For more information about the history of the church, go to www.christchurch.org.