The Vision
Marion Methodist took a leap of faith when they decided to move from the historic building their congregation had been worshiping in for over 125 years into a brand-new building. They had maxed out their building, having 4 services with over 2000 people and only 21 parking spaces. With this transition to a new space, the church team wanted to design a modern space that would connect with younger generations, while embracing their faith history.
Designing the Vision
Church Leadership approached Custom Sound Designs (CSD) looking for a system with high levels of creativity and flexibility, so they could express themselves in a variety of ways, ranging from modern worship music to hand bell choirs, vocal choirs, puppets and more. While First United Methodist wanted a well-rounded, turnkey AVL solution, their number one goal was to create a building that was visually immersive drawing people’s attention heavenward, similar to that of the stained glass and architecture in their historic, downtown building. This visual immersion was accomplished with 7 laser projectors, full color RGBW house lights, and a backlit cross in the center of the sanctuary. One of the major players in this immersive system is the Environmental Projection, which wraps 270 degrees of the room in a canvas for creativity. All of this works together to create an immersive environment for people to connect with each other and most importantly to connect with God.
Executing the Vision
Other key elements of this design include d&b audiotechnik loudspeakers, amplifiers, control and rigging, a wide array of fixed and moving LED light fixtures, Blackmagic Design video switching capabilities, inductive hearing loop, and digital signage placed throughout the entire building. The end result of this 1000 seat sanctuary design is awe-inspiring. The vibrant colors from the lights and environmental projection, along with the transparent audio system creates for a place where true, authentic community and worship can take place.
