Evangelical & Reformed United Church of Christ - Waukesha

Wisconsin, USA

Up From the Ashes: "The Evangelical & Reformed United Church of Christ of Waukesha Returns"

In December 2005 the church and their pipe organ was destroyed by a fire that was started by Advent Candles. While this loss could have “done in” a lesser congregation, this devoted community made a commitment to “rise from the ashes” and rebuild the church in the same, downtown location. Construction began in August of 2007 and on September 28, 2008 they held their first worship service in their beautiful new church.

The new building is a stunning facility with nice acoustics for all styles of music. Organist Rueck Rucktenwald, wanted to have windblown pipes in the new building, however the funds were not available to install a full pipe organ. After hearing some wonderful Rodgers Hybrid Organs in the area, it was clear that this was the right direction for the church. Best of all, this “ideal” organ could be built in financially-attainable phases.

Phase One (a custom 3-manual Rodgers 958 organ) was completed in September of 2008.

Phase Two was just completed in October of 2010 with the installation of a Ruffatti Principal Chorus and an impressive façade that includes a 16’ Pedal Principal.

After playing the pipes for one service the organist writes, “ I love the pipework!! My J.S. Bach Offertory was played just on the pipes. The congregation applauded. They like them too. Thanks so much!!! Wow!!!! What an instrument!!!!! Rueck