JourneyOnline
Recently I was involved in bagging our church. It was an interesting process that was undertaken without any previous experience so I give this advice to any others who are considering bagging their Church.
First, not all churches need bagging. However there are some that have become, for one reason or another, unappealing to those who observe from a distance.
The reason for this may be because of unattractive staining or perhaps the foundations have moved sideways.
A good bagging can fix the problem but not everybody will agree that it is the right approach.
Many will be happy with the way their church is and feel that change is not necessary.
If there are no alternatives then these are some of the things that you need to keep in mind when bagging the church:
• Have clear objectives; know when to stop.
• Listen to the advice of others.
• Be aware that the process may be upsetting to some who are comfortable with the way things are, but don’t be afraid to go out on a limb if necessary to get the job done.
• Don’t try to bag a church that is made of the wrong stuff.
• Always start at the top.
• Research the subject and prepare well.
• Don’t be afraid to get stuck in; sometimes any change is an improvement.
• Don’t expect a lot of support.
• Be aware that the bagging process is messy and may leave a bad taste in your mouth if you are not careful.
Ideal ratio: 4 parts premix mortar, 1 part builders cement, 2 parts water, 0.25 parts Bond Crete.
Photo : Church bagger Kevin Smith from Russell Street Uniting Church in Toowoomba is a builder and spare-time archery coach
