Bethany Lutheran Church - Elmira Steven Hovis: From the outside, this "sleeping tiger" seems little more than FotoMat kiosk, as one drives by the brick facade of the church - sitting close to the curb, on a secondary intersection, just blocks after crossing the Chemung River heading South on Walnut St. But, when you enter - the church somehow unfolds around you, like a trick that might well impress H.Einstein! The chapel is very ornate, as expected, with a profound stained glass window above the altar - that draws your eye through the Nave, past the spikes of natural sunlight casting down around the Pulpit and Crossing (like spotlights), pulling you gaze beyond the Choirs stage. Even, as your brain has yet to fathom how big it is on the inside, the church space is filled with the warm energy of its parishioners- that settles around you like the comfortable feeling of "being home". Attached, opposite from the chapel, the window-wrapped Fellowship Hall seems to be able to accomodate for several hundred who might share in a PotLuck Luncheon or special event/presentation. The Hall has closed off kitchen space, and adequate tech to meet any A/V needs. As you exit this "big" little church - it is the pride in caring for, and co-owned history from its care-takers that resonates around you - crossing East across S. Walnut St. to your car in the churchs exclusive paved parking lot.
