Open House

News Release

Meet the Builders

An Overview of the Sanctuary Project

News Herald Article (19 Apr 09)


Holy Incarnation Orthodox Church will host an Open House on Sunday, March 29 from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

The Open House will showcase Holy Incarnation's newly redecorated sanctuary. "We are very exited about the improvements to our worship space," said Father John W Fenton, Pastor of Holy Incarnation. "A new altar was consecrated by our bishop in February, and the altar space has been enhanced. This project has given us a new look, and the entire feel of the inside of the building has become more conducive to prayer. So we are inviting the public to see our progress."

Holy Incarnation moved to Lincoln Park and purchased its facility in February 2008. "When we first moved in, the place was pretty bare," said Fr Fenton. "We have been blessed to contract a premier craftsman to construct the worship space so that it is inviting and suitable home for Orthodox worship."

In looking for help in renovating the church, Father Fenton was fortunate to have a former parishioner of his living in the mission's neighborhood. Keith M. Steffke of Lincoln Park was pleased to serve as the designer, woodworker and project manager for the sanctuary improvements for the new congregation. Working with his stepfather, Walter J. Froehlich of E & W Cabinet of Romulus, Steffke was able to create a unique, warm, formal worship space in a blend of Reformed Gothic and Arts and Craft styles.

Founded in 1970, E & W Cabinet has made a name for itself by specializing in unique and challenging projects. Remodeling residential and commercial spaces is the mainstay of the company. Froehlich, a third generation woodworker, is also frequently called upon to conduct major renovations and restorations of historic structures, such as Henry Ford's Fairlane Manor mansion. "We appreciated this opportunity to enter this niche, and look forward to working with Holy Incarnation and other church projects in the area," said Mr Steffke.

Holy Incarnation was established in 2007 by the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese in 2007 as a Western Rite parish. During its first year, it rented space at Christ the King Episcopal in Taylor. After one year, it had the resources to purchase a church on Goddard Road near Fort. All liturgical services are in English, and conform to the ancient Western (Latin) worship.

The Open House will be preceded by the regular Sunday morning worship services. "We also extend a warm invitation to the community to join us for the Sunday morning Lauds (Morning Prayer) and Mass," said Father Fenton. The Divine Liturgy begins at 9:00 a.m. The Open House will conclude with Vespers, a brief evening prayer service.