Fleche: A slender spire typically over the intersection of the nave and transept of a Gothic church; originated in the mid 19th century and is the French word for 'arrow'.

You may recall the sticker shock of a million dollar plus price tag nixed our initial plan to restore the entire fleche or steeple. With a tremendous ministry asset entrusted to our care and both a legacy and future to consider, we pressed forward working with architect Ellis Schmidlapp and contractor Richard Gromo, of Unique Services and Applications, Inc., to develop an alternative plan dividing the project into three phases. After receiving approval from the PA Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC) and with funding secure we proceeded to begin phase one: Restoration of the top third of the fleche.

To mitigate the cost of expensive scaffolding, our contractor worked out a method to separate the top portion of the fleche and then lower it to the church lawn via a large crane. This approach will not only help keep the cost of the project within budget, but over the summer months will also provide each of us, and interested on-lookers, with an up close opportunity to witness the complex work of restoration.

Why is this work important? The work of preserving a sacred place of worship supports ministry and mission! The fleche or steeple, lifting the cross high up into the sky manifests a clearly visible sign of the active presence of Christ. It and the physical beauty of the structure below serve as a public witness or testimony attracting numerous individuals inside year after year. Consider also the value of those ministries that take place within, the countless hundreds served. Indeed, our own analysis shows that 95% are not church members! The building is a tremendous asset for outreach. The next time you hear someone say that the building is a liability or “taking care of the building is not our mission” -- consider the vital role it fulfills in enhancing ministry and mission.

Funding for the $300,000 first phase of the fleche restoration project comes by way of a $90,000 Keystone matching grant from the PA Historical & Museum Commission, a $125,000 payment from our insurance carrier, and by contributors to “Building Bridges to our 3rd Century” the Capital Campaign for the historic preservation of the First Baptist Church of Pittsburgh. Contact Casey Gnage, campaign treasurer, if you are interested in supporting this ministry.

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