First Methodist Church renovating 1940’s era Children’s Building

First United Methodist Church (FUMC) in New Albany is undergoing a major renovation that includes work on the Children’s Building.

This photo was taken in early fall before any demolition work was done. When work is complete the view of the church complex from the front will be very nearly the same as before the old porte cocher was demolished.

The work will substantially modify the interior of the Children’s Building and will upgrade much of the exterior of the back entry to the church complex.

This photo, looking approximately south, was shot Sunday, February 14, from about the same perspective point as the architect’s rendering of how the rear of the church will look when work is complete.

Demolition work began late last year to make way for the work on the Children’s Building, which was built in the 1940s. Although the construction will not greatly enlarge the exterior “footprint” of the building,  FUMC Pastor Barry Male says the work to the interior will rearrange the classroom layout,  improve traffic flow and add a game room.

What was formerly an open colonnade will be enclosed, but will have ample windows so children in the adjacent outdoor playground space can be observed by parents and other adults.

Architect’s illustration of how the back of the First United Methodist Church of New Albany will look when work is complete in time for Christmas 2016.

The New Albany First United Methodist Church was first organized in 1874. The congregation worshiped in various locations until it built its own first building in 1886. The congregation purchased the lot where the current building stands in 1927, and the original part of the current church building was completed and the first service held there on April 10, 1927.

The new construction is expected to be finished, and the space occupied, by Christmas.