Pathways Create: West U Baptist Sanctuary

The last sanctuary renovation occurred during the summer of 1997. It is time for a renewal that enhances both the spiritual experience and the functional capacity of our Sunday services. This renovation will make our sanctuary more suitable for a wide range of services and events while preserving its historic integrity and beauty.

The need is clear. Modern ministry requires updated audio, lighting, and visual systems that can support worship, teaching, and online ministry with excellence. These improvements will elevate the in-person experience while strengthening our growing digital reach. By investing in this renovation, we are investing in the largest worship space in West University Place and ensuring our ability to influence people from all walks of life for years to come. This sacred room is where we gather each week to worship and encounter the living God. It is essential that this space reflects His glory and accommodates the growth He is sending our way.

Endorsement from Dr. Paul Magyar, West U Baptist Worship & Senior Adults Pastor

Almost seven decades ago, God led the faithful members of West University Baptist Church to build a beautiful sanctuary in which countless souls have now worshipped and personally encountered the Savior. Since that time, our sanctuary has been remodeled and refreshed, but now it is time for a complete remodel that will preserve the timeless beauty through our stained glass, new or completely refurbished pews, an expanded platform for our growing team of minister-musicians, a versatile three-manual digital organ, and increased ceiling height. Our online ministry presence will benefit from increased technology, enabling us to faithfully proclaim the gospel to the ends of the earth. I am grateful to God for the privilege of serving CityRise West U Baptist during this season, casting my wholehearted support into a project that will enhance our worship for many years to come.

Endorsement from Wes Mathew, Production Director

Advancing new technology in our church can powerfully expand how we reach people for Christ. In a digital age, people spend more time online than ever before—scrolling, streaming, and connecting. Upgrading our sound systems, cameras, and digital platforms isn’t just a cost, it’s a ministry investment with eternal value. Our church can meet people right where they are: on their phones, computers, and social media. Livestreamed services, online Bible studies, and Christian podcasts allow the message of Jesus to reach homes and hearts across the world. Even those who can’t attend in person can still experience worship, teaching, and fellowship through digital tools. And let’s not forget that technology has been around longer than we think! In Exodus, there was the first instance of technology with Moses. He came down the mountain with two tablets containing content from the cloud. Humor aside, technology truly is a gift when used for God’s glory. Investing in it isn’t just practical, it’s an eternal investment in reaching souls for Christ.

Endorsement from Andrew Jefferson, West U Baptist Member

I have spent my entire life at CityRise West U Baptist. I was baptized in the sanctuary as a child, had my wedding ceremony here, have celebrated and grieved with family, and have now dedicated both of my children in this same room. God has used this space to shape my faith, my family, and my life. As someone serving in worship and audio ministry, I see every week how our sanctuary helps people encounter the gospel. But ministry needs, worship environments, and communication tools have evolved, and we’ve reached a point where thoughtful, intentional renovation is necessary. A refreshed sanctuary will help us better serve families, create space for connection, and support worship with clarity, excellence, and warmth. This remodel honors the legacy of what God has done here while preparing our church to reach and disciple future generations. I fully support this vision and look forward to what God will do next in the century of CityRise.

Endorsement from Carolyn Shadwick, West U Baptist Member

I was interested in being a part of the Sanctuary Unity Focus Group, as I wanted to represent long-standing members of the traditional church and to be able to think “forward” to those who will worship after we have gone. We were charged to prayerfully consider several key unity aspects of updating and modernizing the sanctuary: Would pews or individual seats serve the congregation best and allow for adaptation of programs and growth in attendance? Was there still a need and desire for a center aisle? As we transition to a digital organ and improved sound system, do we want to preserve the pipes as an homage to the look, feel, and history of the room? How could we best address the technology needs of present day, near future, and be positioned to grow with tech advances for the next several generations as well? Members of the group represented all ages from late teens to late-in-life adults, members new to our congregation as well as “seasoned” members, music lovers, all ministries (children, women, men, senior adults, teens), VBS workers and the A Children’s Village staff and families, technology experts, Bible study members and leaders, the outreach-and-community minded, and lovers of Jesus of every stripe. Conversation was lively, open, honest, respectful and creative. Topics were not limited to the four stated unity points. Many, many renditions of room options were shared and considered, until general consensus was reached on every topic. Serving as part of this Sanctuary Unity Focus Group was a responsibility that I welcomed. We were asked to think beyond today and to create an environment that will welcome everyone who enters and will, above all, point each person to the worship and adoration of our Lord.

Endorsement from Zac McCray, West U Baptist Member

The proposed sanctuary redesign honors our church’s enduring heritage while advancing our vision for growth. The stained glass, soaring ceiling, and bright walls embody the timeless beauty of our faith, drawing us into something and Someone greater than ourselves. The expanded platform and choir loft reflect our unwavering commitment to the proclaimed Word and vibrant worship, enhancing the elements we already cherish about our sanctuary. Meanwhile, other features propel us forward. A state-of-the-art digital organ ensures superior sound control and streamlined maintenance, while dynamic lighting and a versatile LED screen transform the space for more intimate experiences as needed. As a young choir member, I am genuinely thrilled by this redesign and eagerly look forward to worshipping in this beautiful sanctuary!