It is often the case that we feel as if no one is listening when we’re frustrated with something that is important to us. I want to acknowledge that I am hearing your complaints about the sound system in the Sanctuary! The complete solution will take time, but let me tell you what we’ve done so far. The ministers and staff have talked about the system several times and have identified some specific problems. Roger McRea and our sound consultant, Kellie Whitlock, have worked with the ministers and tuned their headset microphones to their individual voices. The sound has been adjusted on the lectern and pulpit microphones. The ministers and lay readers have been coached on how to speak more clearly in our large sanctuary.

All of the assisted hearing devices have been checked to make sure that they are working well. We have ordered eight new units and we encourage you to use these devices. They cut out the reverberation in the room and help the clarity of the spoken word. If you have trouble with your device, please ask the greeter, or the usher for assistance. When used properly, the headphones make a big difference.

Most importantly, David McGee has graciously volunteered to forego singing in the choir for now and to be our “sound tech” in the Sanctuary on Sunday mornings. That means that he is in the Sanctuary during the service, hearing what’s going on and making adjustments to the sound in order to maximize your understanding of the spoken word. Please thank him when you see him for lending his professional expertise to our Sunday morning worship experience!

We will continue to evaluate the current sound system in the coming months. The Property Maintenance Committee will be an important part of this process and we’ll keep you apprised of any new developments. 
—Wendy Blight, Church Business Administrator