Building and Grounds

Our Passion for this building & land

Grace is situated in the center of a beautiful ten-acre property, a site carefully developed to create a sense of wonder and discovery. Our church building and grounds provide a year-round space in which to worship and to share beauty in nature. The architectural image of a tent reflects the years we wandered before settling on this land.

Our building was designed by Jim Cutler of Cutler Anderson Architects and completed in 2003. Six massive pillars support a roof that soars thirty feet above the sanctuary. Walls of glass and clerestory windows allow natural light to fill the space. At night the building glows like a beacon, welcoming all to enter.

A zinc line down the middle of our sanctuary connects the baptismal font at the entry with the cross behind the altar and continues to the memorial garden behind soaring windows. Our building invites the beauty of creation into our worship space, as we gaze at towering trees, squint into the sunlight, or feel the rhythm of the rain on the roof. Birdsong permeates the walls, and sometimes a passing coyote provides an amusing distraction. 

Our sanctuary reflects our worship style. There is no raised altar or altar rail; we use individual chairs instead of pews; there are no kneelers; seating is usually arranged in a circle so we can experience the faces of Grace while celebrating our commitment to inclusion. Design elements include natural lighting, openness, and the warmth of natural wood.

Care and maintenance of the entire property are under the leadership of our Place for Grace Ministry, supported by a Building and Property Manager Eric Matthews and dedicated volunteers.

Volunteers help maintain our space, including our front garden and pathways, memorial garden, trail system, and altar arrangements. If you'd like to get involved, email our Building & Property Manager, Eric Matthews.

Third Saturday work parties

We hold landscaping work parties from 9 a.m. to noon each third Saturday of the month, and volunteers and tools are always welcome.

Contact: Martin Garthwaite

The Grace labyrinth

Located on the Northeast corner of the property next to the garden, our outdoor labyrinth provides a quiet space for contemplation.

Volunteer help is always welcome to help maintain the labyrinth. Information: Kathie McCarthy.

aerial image: John McKenzie