The well proportioned architecture of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church suffered from a poor acoustical environment and an inadequately placed, decaying organ. The room contained both sound absorbing carpeted floors and a porous ceiling. The divided Chancel choir seating arrangement restricted musical flexibility. Worn out organ pipes and parts from various sources were trapped in a deep side chamber with restrictive tone openings.
The acoustical improvements and liturgical renovation of the church included a new Martin Ott mechanical action pipe organ placed on the long axis of the room, and an altar, font, and ambo placed closer to the congregation. Ample space, risers and flexible seating are provided for the choir. Flooring throughout the room is now primarily sound reflective hardwood, with only a modest center aisle runner of carpet. The ceiling surfaces have been hardened and a new sound system projects the spoken word.
