The Memorial Church: A renovation in images

The Memorial Church is undergoing an important and essential renovation designed to accommodate the contemporary mission of Harvard Yard’s space of grace.

Behind the fence surrounding this 84-year-old building, contractors are installing a new climate control system to allow comfortable, year-round activities inside the church. A new exterior ramp to improve access, and a complete redesign of the lower level that will create a new meeting space for students and church events are also included in the project plans.

From ground-breaking to reopening, as well as the discoveries in between (such as the discovery of an antique whiskey bottle in a wall some worker long ago used to hold varnish), this is a journey of transition. Sunday services will take place in The Knafel Center (Radcliffe Gym), Morning Prayers in Holden Chapel and music performances in venues across campus during the construction.

The Church is expected to reopen early next year, but the mission of “Expanding Minds, Expanding Hearts and Enriching Lives,” will continue throughout the school year. For updates go to our renovation page.