Those who have been through it say that renovating old space is harder than creating new space. Azure Hills church members have been through it.

It seemed like a modest proposal. Replace the 30-year-old carpets, pews, electrical wiring and sound system. Renovate restrooms and hallways. Expand the platform and entry. Install new lights, windows and doors. But after harder-than-expected work, larger-than-hoped for expenses, and 15 months of exile in the fellowship hall, the congregation returned to the sanctuary with a sigh of relief—and great joy.

“We thank God for the completion of our sanctuary renovation,” said John Brunt, senior pastor, during special services on May 14. “And we thank those who have contributed their skills to God’s service to make the new sanctuary a reality.”

Two powerful biblical symbols enhance worship in the refurbished space—palm branches and flowing water. Golden palm fronds are woven into a royal blue carpet. Flowing water cascades silently down the rippled, dark face of the new baptistery.

“A powerful worship scene in Revelation 7 uses these symbols,” Brunt pointed out. “The great multitude standing before God’s throne holds palm branches. And, led by the Lamb, they drink from springs of living water. These same symbols speak to us today. They invite us to continually celebrate God’s salvation.”

Still, Brunt emphasized, the sanctuary God most covets is a place in people’s hearts. “We meet here so that together we can become God’s dwelling place.”

Bea Cortes, mayor pro tem of Grand Terrace, congratulated the congregation on the refurbished sanctuary. Individuals who played key roles in the renovation process received glass plaques: Arthur Blinci, chair of the “Vision 2005” committee; Glenna Gow, designer; Alger Keough, Azure Hills executive pastor; Fred Simental, contractor and structural engineer; and Paul Tickner, architect.