Historic Dover church to rededicate sanctuary after restoration Nov. 21

Christ Episcopal Church in downtown Dover will hold a service of blessing and rededication at 9 a.m., Sunday, Nov. 21, in the church sanctuary at 501 S. State St. 

This service celebrates the completion of several years of planning, and a months-long project to restore and renovate the historic 1734 structure.

Included in the renovation were refurbishment of the pews and hardwood floors, interior painting with a color from a historic collection offered by a national paint supplier, upgrades to lighting and HVAC, a new organ console and more.

"The work that was done will sustain us for years to come," said Jon Rania, a lay ministry associate who oversaw the project for the congregation. "We take much pride in our role and position in this community, in the history of our city, the state and in the life of the Episcopal Church here in Delaware. Not to forget the generations who worshiped here before us and are buried in our churchyard. We stand on their shoulders and continue their legacy as we move forward in the 21st century. We want this place to continue to be a safe harbor for all people, and we want to continue to shine our beacon far and wide for all to see."

At the service, the Most Rev. Kevin S. Brown, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Delaware, will offer prayers of blessing and rededication along with the Rev. Charles S. Weiss, church rector.

Contractors involved with the project have also been invited to attend and will be recognized during the service for the work they did. The public is invited to attend. Refreshments will follow immediately after. There is no charge, but a freewill offering will be taken. For more information, contact Jon Rania at 302-734-5731 or 302-245-1881, or email jrania@christchurchdover.org

Christ Church was founded in 1705 as a mission to the Church of England's Society for the Propagation of the Gospel. The church structure has been in continuous use since its construction in 1734, and it is home to a viable and active congregation.

In addition to the church sanctuary, the historic churchyard is the final resting place for many Dover citizens, including Caesar Rodney, whose grandfather was once the church rector. Additional familiar family names of those who are buried there include the Ridgelys, RIchardsons, Loockermans, Bradfords, Bonwills, Bannings, Terrys, Thompsons and many more.

The parish house on the same campus is a well-known building to many in the community because of its myriad programs, ranging from 12-step group meetings and music lessons to hosting legislative gatherings and more.