St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, is celebrating a significant improvement to its choir loft, enhancing safety and accessibility for its 47-member chancel choir. The choir, a vital part of the church’s worship services, now enjoys new theater-style seating that provides greater comfort and security, especially for its older members. A $10,000 grant from ENCORE Ministry Foundation helped fund the project.
The need for this upgrade became apparent as the choir’s aging members, 27 of whom are over 65 years old, faced challenges navigating the narrow 12-inch ledge on the fixed risers. The limited space made it difficult for members to move to their seats and stand securely while singing, leading to three falls in the past year. Fortunately, no injuries occurred, but the incidents highlighted the urgent need for change.
In the summer of 2024, choir leadership approached the church trustees to address the issue. After exploring several options, including widening the risers—a solution deemed too costly and disruptive—the church decided to install theater-style chairs. The chairs feature weighted seats that automatically fold up when not in use, creating an additional 8 inches of riser space. In addition, the chairs have armrests, making it easier for members to rise from their seats.
The new seating was installed on September 2, 2025, and has already made a noticeable difference. Choir members have expressed their gratitude for the upgrade, noting the increased safety, comfort, and ease of movement. One member shared, “The wonderful new stadium seats for our constantly growing choir are such an improvement! It gives us so much more room for moving between the rows and has provided secure footing for all of us when we stand and sing.”
Another member added, “Thank you for the financial support which made it possible to fund revisions to our choir seating. A number of us in the choir have limited mobility and were reaching the time when we could no longer safely move into our seats. The new chairs make it possible to stand with our feet fully supported by the riser and also to pass in front of someone who has already reached their seat.”
The project reflects St. Mark’s commitment to creating an inclusive and safe environment for all members of its congregation. The church is grateful to the Encore Ministry Foundation and everyone who contributed to this effort, ensuring that the choir can continue to share their talents in worship for years to come.
