The University United Methodist Church in downtown Chapel Hill is more than halfway toward a $250,000 goal for repairing and upgrading its landmark century-old steeple, which stands more than 200 feet high.
The beloved steeple has been the backdrop for many selfies taken by out-of-towners.
This year, that hasn’t been possible, due to construction.
Here’s Marty Sather, a member of the church who’s active in raising funds for the steeple project:
“You know, we’re in a rebuilding phase, if you will, in terms of upgrading and improving some things with the steeple,” said Sather.
The majority of support, naturally, has come from congregation members. But Sather added that townies, and even visitors to Chapel Hill, have contributed.
“So many people – you know, they come in town for football games and basketball games, and maybe they were former students,” said Sather, “and maybe, spent a couple of years as a member of the church.
“So they’re able to kind of come in and make contributions, which is always great. But it’s a special place. It’s a special image, and something we’re clearly very proud of.”
The church has raised around $130,000 so far. Sather said that the work is projected to be finished, with all the scaffolding down, in about six months.
“Hopefully by the middle of basketball season, everything will be down, and you can come to Chapel Hill and look up at night, and see the steeple all lit up,” he said.
Members of the community that wish to contribute to the steeple fund can visit here.
Comments on Chapelboro are moderated according to our Community Guidelines