Today's view is of the interior of Starmount Presbyterian Church on West Market Street. The pulpit and the table are two of the three pieces made by local Presby member The Reverend Dr. Erich Thompson.* The furniture is special, given that it is made locally and that Rev. Thompson made it from the wood from pews- removed from the church after being replaced during a renovation. Another special feature of the pulpit is that the wiring for the sound system runs through the front left leg.
Before taking up woodworking, Rev. Thompson served as a preacher in Virginia and North Carolina. At first, woodworking was a hobby, but now, he no longer actively preaches and, instead focuses on creating furnishing for sacred spaces. His furniture-making business was founded in 2003, making it almost 20 years of designing furniture to fit the exact needs of given sacred spaces. This is almost the same amount of time he served as a congregational and worship leader.**
If you get a chance, attend a service at Starmount Presbyterian and you will be able to admire Rev. Thompson's beautiful furniture. We wish we'd captured more of the stained glass window in the background, as it is also beautiful. The window is comprised of rough, thick glass chunks and it complements Rev. Thompson's furniture quite well. Both exude great craftsmanship, are sturdy, and are more modern than traditional. If you are interested in attending a service, the church is located at 3501 West Market Street. Sunday morning service is at 10 am and available in person and live-streamed (see Facebook). You might even get a chance to meet Rev. Thompson!
Happy Sunday!
*The third piece in the church is a baptismal font.
** Reference and Rev. Thompson's website: HERE.
Quite well done.
Posted by: William Kendall | Sunday, August 28, 2022 at 05:34 AM