Vision for Restoration
Opus 190 is not the only part of this church that has changed since 1912. The ministry of Grand Avenue now reaches out to lift and nourish the homeless population in downtown Kansas City through Lazarus Ministries. Support comes predominantly from private donations and these generous gifts have allowed us to grow our ministries as God has led us. However, the constant need for funding to run our programs has not allowed for the proper maintenance or repair of the Opus 190.
With God’s help, it is the intention of our Church to have this instrument fully restored to its original splendor by the Centennial Celebration of the sanctuary building and organ in March 2012. Dr. John Schwandt, Professor of Organ at the University of Oklahoma, has been booked to perform the Centennial concert at 3:30 PM on March 25, 2012. His program will include some of the pieces from the original 1912 dedicatory concert program.
Quimby Pipe Organ Company of Warrensburg, Missouri has agreed to perform the restoration and graciously secured Dr. Schwandt for the centennial concert. Quimby has been totally responsible for repairs on the Opus 190 since the 1970’s, donating countless hours of labor and supplies. Their love of this particular E. M. Skinner organ, and their dedication to holding the tonal characteristics as Skinner intended them, guarantee a pristine job will be done in this very large, complicated restoration.
The restoration is structured in 4 Phases. As of late December 2011, phases 1 through 3 are complete and partially paid for. Phase 4 will be completed before the Centennial concert in March. We are currently needing $23,500 to cover the costs of the current restoration plans.
We welcome all donations, large and small, to bring this magnificent instrument to its original grandeur. Having this restoration accomplished and properly maintained, Grand Avenue Temple UMC can use this instrument not only for bringing God glory and praise during worship services, but can also once again offer its wonder to pipe organ enthusiasts and world class performers as we were able in the early years of the church’s history. Revenue generated from the return of concerts and workshops can further help our ministry and maintaining this wonderful instrument in the years to come.
Donations to the Opus 190 Organ Fund may be made on line by clicking on our Donation page, browsing down to Grand Avenue Temple and then clicking the Donate button. During the final checkout, please put “Organ Fund” in the comments box. You may also mail your donation to Grand Avenue Temple UMC, 205 E 9th St, Kansas City, MO 64106. Please write “Organ Fund” on the memo line of your check.
