Federal Way United Methodist Church is celebrating its 40th anniversary and the remodeling of the church’s sanctuary on April 14-15.

The church, located at 29645 51st Ave. S. in Auburn, is putting the finishing touches on a million-dollar renovation that began in November 2011. (SEE PHOTOS)

For the past six months, the church’s nearly 230 members and several regular attendees have been worshipping in a makeshift sanctuary in the basement.

This Sunday, the new sanctuary will be ready for action — complete with television monitors, an improved sound system, soft stage lighting and soon-to-be-installed glass panel doors. Outside the sanctuary is a new coffee/espresso bar, along with a renovated children’s wing and classrooms. The new pulpit will be reconsecrated this weekend.

The congregation formed in 1971, and the current church facility was built in 1976. No renovations have been done at the church since the mid-1980s, said the Rev. Nancy Ferree-Clark.

The pastor is elated with the new construction. Ferree-Clark looks forward to the congregation extending its reach beyond church walls and into the community. There are community groups who already share space at the church.

“Simply building a new sanctuary will not make the church,” she said. “It’s a matter of what we do with it and how God uses us.”

More improvements are coming soon. A tall wooden cross that was once displayed outside will be replaced by a lighted cross. The church’s exterior will also receive a new coat of paint.

Learn more

• To see photos of the newly remodeled church, click here.

• To learn more about Federal Way United Methodist Church, visit fwumc.org. On April 14, the church will hold a celebratory anniversary dinner, joined by some of the church’s former pastors. The church offers traditional and contemporary services.