Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the Gathering Space

April 10, 2025 / Abigail Cook

Celebrating a New Chapter: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the Gathering Space

As we continue our thanking events that mark this significant milestone, we gathered to celebrate the ribbon cutting of the new Gathering Space. The ceremony was abuzz with excitement as Paul Leaman welcomed attendees, expressing heartfelt gratitude to our supporters, board members, and community partners who have been instrumental in making this vision a reality. He also thanked the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Chamber of Commerce for their role in the ribbon cutting event.

Amy Mumbauer, EMS board chair, led us in prayer, dedicating the Gathering Space to serve as a beacon of peace, justice, and learning. Her words resonated with hope and gratitude, encapsulating the spirit of this new beginning.

God of life,

We dedicate the Gathering Space in gratitude,

rejoicing in the abundance of gifts.

We dedicate the Gathering Space in faith,

trusting that it will be a center for peace, justice, and learning.

We dedicate the Gathering Space in hope,

knowing that you will use it to spread your love in the world. Amen

Following the prayer, Heidi Byler, 3rd grade classroom teacher, led the gathering with a special rendition of “Somebody Prayed for Me.”

Maria Archer, EMES principal, extended a warm acknowledgment to the donors and families whose support was pivotal in bringing this project to life. Special recognition was given to the key builders and planners, including project manager, Tyler Kauffman, Charles Hendricks, the architect, and Herr & Co’s Jim, Kyle, and Mike, all of whom were present to share in the celebration.

The new Gathering Space was designed with an indoor-outdoor design, featuring expansive windows, elegant doors, and a welcoming patio area. A standout feature is the stunning stained glass piece created by artist Zac Nafziger, an EMS graduate. This artwork is a tribute to Christopher Robin Mast, one of the early visionaries of this endeavor.

Perhaps one of the most meaningful moments was spent in listening. The dedication litany was a beautiful collaboration of all those who have contributed to this project.

Leader: We gather today in gratitude for this new Gathering Space, built with care, solid construction, and an eye for beauty.

Construction Team: May this space serve generations of students, teachers, and families.

Leader: For the educators who teach students to sing, to learn about Jesus, to serve, and to fellowship together.

Educators: May this space be filled with joy, learning, and love.

Leader: For those whose vision and generosity made this space possible, we give thanks. May their gifts continue to bless our students and school for generations to come.

Supporters: May this space be a reflection of God’s goodness and grace.

Leader: For the children who will gather here, may they find encouragement, friendship, and inspiration. May their hearts and minds be nurtured in this space.

Students: May this space be a place where all feel welcome and valued.

Leader: As we dedicate this Gathering Space, we commit it to God’s work—where students will share stories, learn, and build lasting friendships.

All: May God bless this space and all who enter here.

As we cut the ribbon, we not only celebrated the completion of a beautiful physical space but also the beginning of countless possibilities it holds for fostering community, learning, and growth. This Gathering Space stands as a testament to the collective effort and dedication of everyone involved, and we look forward to the incredible impact it will have on our community.