Capital
Campaign
A/C Capital Campaign
In April 2025, Emmanuel's Vestry passed a resolution that declared its commitment to "pursuing the installation of air conditioning in the sanctuary. for the comfort of parishioners, to welcome those who would stay away without it, and for the preservation of our historic church and organ."
The need for an air-conditioned sanctuary is a necessity, not a luxury. Hotter temperatures have forced us to hold Sunday services in our basement space throughout summer. Private events such as weddings, funerals, or community gatherings cannot be hosted. The beautiful space that is expressly designed for worship and ceremony is unavailable for a good part of the year. ​
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Regulating the climate in our sanctuary is also critical to preserving our historic interior and wood organ. ​The church has consulted with architects and engineers to design an HVAC system that will not detract from the beauty of the interior or compromise the historic nature of our building, inside and out. ​
The capital campaign launched in June, with a goal of $500,000. In November, approximately $310,000 in cash donations or pledges had been received. We plan to install a system so that our sanctuary will be suitable for use in the summer of 2026 for worship, music, weddings, and other gatherings.
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Please help us reach our goal by making an online contribution below. All gifts will support and enhance Emmanuel's capacity to welcome everyone, all year. You can also mail a contribution to EECS Capital Campaign, 300 W. Frederick St, Staunton, VA 24401. Write "AC Capital Campaign" in the check memo to be sure it is accounted for correctly.
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To learn more about the capital campaign, please contact our campaign co-chairs, David Greiner (davidgreiner828@gmail.com) or Steve Berneking (steve.berneking@gmail.com), or call the church office at (540) 886-8172.​​
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Be sure to select "8089 Air Conditioning" to direct your payment properly!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the $500,000 cover?
The proposal for a ductless HVAC estimated $370,000-390,000 for the design, labor, and installation of eight mini-split units, two outdoor compressors, and an outdoor air unit for ventilation. That figure does not include many associated costs, such as utility work to accommodate new electrical loads; concrete work; drywall, painting or patching; and site work -- which could add as much as $100,000. Given economic uncertainty in construction industries and supply chains, we have done our best to define the total cost of the project.
Will this HVAC system detract from the beauty of the sanctuary ?
Hopefully no! There will be no overhead ductwork. There will be eight mini-split floor units placed between radiators along the walls of the sanctuary and in the back. The units are about the same size as our radiators. They will direct cool air upwards so that it will permeate the space up to 15 feet above our heads. A grill bringing fresh air into the space near the front of the nave will be painted to match the walls.
Will the new HVAC system be efficient?
Yes, HVAC systems have become more and more efficient each year. We will do our best to complement our boiler heating system that saves energy and money.
Will our utility bills be higher after the system is installed?
Yes, we will draw more electricity in the summer to operate the system, proportionate to the increased space we have available for use. At this time, we don't have those calculations but we certainly will be mindful of balancing comfort and costs.
What if you exceed your goal?
Oh, how we wish for that! If the sanctuary installation is fully funded, we will use the remaining funds to install an effective HVAC system throughout the church building. As with our worship space, more usable space can only extend our capacity for outreach and welcoming. Memorial Hall and our meeting rooms would be much in demand for a variety of uses.
What if you do not meet your goal?
As we begin this capital campaign, we haven't even begun to explore the abundance of support that our members and God have in store for us. Raising $500,000 for the installation of an HVAC system is an enormous step in preserving our building and nurturing church vitality, and we are confident that we can succeed through grants, private donations, available capital funding and any other means. If the donations cannot be used as intended, they must be returned to donors who request it.
Can I pledge to make future contributions or installments?
Yes! While we prefer to secure funds within a two-year time frame, we are happy to discuss the particulars of a designated gift.​