Sacred Spaces
Honouring. Celebrating. Saving.
What is sacred space?
Sacred spaces are special places, set apart from ordinary space
They are places where we encounter the Divine. Where we come close to the Holy. Where we feel the Spirit.
Sacred spaces serve as bridges between the sacred and the secular
We seek them out to experience peace and comfort. We go to them to feel closer to God.
At Islington we are blessed to have many unique sacred spaces
The Sanctuary is our primary sacred space. Our community has gathered here weekly for more than 75 years.
What is the Sacred Spaces Campaign?
The Sacred Spaces Campaign is a four-stage, five-year initiative to honour, celebrate and save the many special spaces in our church home that need both care and repair by replacing 100 window units and adding air-conditioning to our public spaces.
Cost: $782,000
Cost: $200,000*
Cost: $185,000*
Cost: $150,000*
*estimated costs
Stage 1: The Sanctuary
The Sanctuary is a sacred space – protected and cared for by those who came before us. Now it is our turn.
What do we need to do to protect the space?
Islington has over 100 “leaded glass” windows throughout the church. They have either tinted or clear glass panes within lead strips. These windows need to be replaced over the next five years beginning this summer.
Why are we installing air-conditioning, too?
Air-conditioning will affect the type of windows we choose so the timing is right. As a congregation we have talked for many years about cooling the Sanctuary, Reception Room and Chapel.
Cooling the air will mean worship can be held in the Sanctuary all year. Weddings, funerals and other gatherings will be more comfortable. And the control of humidity will protect our pipe organ and grand piano.
An air-conditioned space means greater potential for rental opportunities. And with the climate crisis, we know our weather is going to be hotter.
What are the benefits?
- Greater energy efficiency and reduced heating costs
- Safer environment
- Significantly improved comfort year-round
- Improved air quality
- Better humidity control in air-conditioned spaces
Why do we have to replace the leaded glass windows?
Most of the leaded glass windows are sagging or buckling; many have cracked or broken panes and may cause physical injury or property damage.
The single pane windows allow significant heat loss and gaps in the glass and frames allow moisture and air to penetrate. These contribute to rising heating costs, moisture damage and our discomfort. If we do not address the condition of the windows and injury or damage occurs, our insurance coverage can be affected.
Will the windows look like what we have now?
The church is a “listed” building on the City of Toronto’s Heritage Register, meaning it is “believed to be of cultural heritage value or interest.” As a result, the windows we have chosen will replicate the current style as closely as possible.
The pattern will be created by a coloured layer and an authentic-looking lead grid between the panes. The windows will be double-glazed, sealed units to improve energy efficiency, safety and comfort.
How will the project be funded?
There will be a major fundraising program at each stage backed by the assets of the congregation’s Memorial Fund. Grants for energy efficiency and heritage preservation will also be pursued. We have already received approval for a $20,000 Faithful Footprints grant from the United Church of Canada and pledges and donations of about $162,000 for the Sanctuary.