Sanctuary Becomes Camera-Ready with Chauvet

A non-denominational sanctuary in Middlesboro, Kentucky is planning to begin a televised ministry installed 58 Chauvet fixtures to help light the way.

The new design of Faith Temple Ministry, renovated to become a video-ready facility, includes 19 COLORdash PAR, 21 COLORdash Quad, 10 COLORado 1, and eight COLORado 6p LED wash lights.

Jeff Sochko, of Sochko Production Services, was chosen to transform the existing 450-seat sanctuary from its original design to a new facility that reflects the warmth and charm of its surrounding countryside. With guidance from the pastoral team and help from William Alexander, audio specialist from Shamea Sound, and Steve King, producer with AVS Media Group, Faith Temple Ministry's bold new transformation was underway.

"The visual elements of this renovation were born out of pride for the area and its history," Sochko said. "The design was an attempt to tie in all of these visual elements while meeting the current needs and future goals of Faith Temple Ministry."

Sochko integrated a combination of Chauvet fixtures throughout the design to allow for maximum flexibility, performance and savings. COLORdash PAR wash lights employed as truss warmers, made for a clean and efficient installation because of their size, electrical and control pass-through capabilities. Strategically and discreetly placed COLORdash Quad wash lights illuminate the stage's background by producing wide, linear beams for a bright, seamless wash. Back lighting was achieved with the help of Sochko's longtime favorite COLORado 1. A general stage wash and side lighting was provided by the COLORado 6P, a bright fixture that emphasizes the dimension of the sanctuary's elevated stage. The abilities and choice of lenses on the COLORado 1 and COLORado 6p allowed for a big presence with a small number of fixtures, an important attribute for a church setting, and high frequency LEDs were a necessity for flicker-free video operation.

The sanctuary's redesigned stage features free-standing truss that not only adds structural support to the energy-efficient lighting design, but also ties in the industrial feeling of the area's mining heritage. In addition, recycled barn wood and corrugated metal roofing panels add a familiar, rustic feel. Knowing there could be major structural changes to Faith Temple Ministry in the future, Sochko said every aspect of this permanent installation was designed to be flexible and movable.

Joe Middleton, media director for Faith Temple Ministry, said the renovation not only added a feeling of excitement among its parishioners, but the technical team is now able to visually reinforce the message delivered by the pastoral team.

"The new stage was designed to creatively celebrate God through our Appalachian heritage," Middleton said. "It used to look like a jungle of fake plants backed by a landscape of lilac walls, but now it's a beautiful setting that inspires the creativity of God's worshippers."