Located in Ellicott City, MD, lightning and water used to fight the fire caused over $1 million in damages as sixty firefighters battled a blaze that destroyed the entire sanctuary, the baptismal, offices, pews, organ, piano, closets, air ducts and wiring concealed above the ceiling, electrical wiring throughout, mechanical equipment and the entire roof structure. The congregation took advantage of this misfortune to reconfigure the worship experience. Engaging daylight enhances the worship experience and dramatically changes the character of the full-day active working sessions in which the church community participates every Saturday. The new sanctuary is open and light-filled. Large windows and deep overhangs on three sides of the nearly square structure and the large pyramidal skylight centered atop the roof allow light to softly penetrate every corner of the large room. Seating is arranged to bring worshipers close to the altar. Photo credit: Anne Gummerson