Now, Senior Pastor Tom Hall hopes to upgrade the church’s dining facilities in an effort to bring in more newcomers and build its congregation.
“There’s a very profound theology about sharing a meal with someone,” Hall said. “Sharing a meal meant acceptance.”
Hall and the leadership of First Presbyterian are developing a plan to renovate the church’s food service facilities. Rather than the current dining hall that Hall said looks like a grade-school cafeteria, the idea is to develop something a little more like a Panera Bread in approach. The new concept also would make the church available for banquets and receptions.
Thus far, First Presbyterian has brought in Wexford-based Ron Sofranko to serve as a consultant. The church also is considering bringing in a new catering firm.