CCE Breaks Ground on New Site, Year-Long Project Eyed

By Eric Payer

Payer: Progress on new site ‘a testament to the town’s resilience’

Editor’s Note: Eric Payer works for Church Development Services and is the Construction Project Manager of the Congregational Church of Eastford rebuilding project. The following article is written from his point of view.

EASTFORD — Several months ago, I had never heard of Eastford, Connecticut. My career in construction has taken me to many places — some bustling cities, others quiet suburbs — but none quite like this small, close-knit town nestled in the rolling hills of Windham County. Yet, as I now stand at the site of what will soon be a new church building, I can honestly say that Eastford has already made a lasting impression on me.

The Congregational Church of Eastford, as many of you know, was destroyed by arson on April 23, 2023 — a tragic event that left a void in the hearts of the congregation and the town. But, in true Eastford fashion, the resilience and strength of the community have been nothing short of inspiring as the town comes together to restore what was lost.

Since arriving here earlier this year, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Pastor Mike Moran, and lay leaders like Bob Vincent, Bruce Barlow, Mike Jenkins, and John Buell. I’m continuously impressed by how welcoming everyone has been, from local residents, town officials, and governing bodies have been, such as the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission and Planning Commission.

The warmth of Eastford’s people isn’t just in their hospitality, but also in their passion to rebuild something that represents more than just bricks and mortar. This church is home to many in the community.

The land, though beautiful, required significant preparation before the CDS-led team could break ground. Since the foundation of a project begins long before the first hammer swings, Earth Dynamics construction team and the site engineering team of Dave Smith and Paul Archer started with erosion controls to ensure that the surrounding environment remained undisturbed during construction. It’s an important part of the process — protecting the water flow, preserving local vegetation, and making sure that the land remains as unspoiled as possible.

After several weeks of preparatory work, including the installation of erosion control barriers, grading, and tree removal, the site is now ready for the next phase. In late July, or early August, the team will begin construction on the new building, and that’s when the real transformation will start to take shape. Watching the foundation being laid and the frame of the church rise from the ground will be a moment we all are eagerly anticipating.

The job of a project manager is to oversee the technical details of the build, ensuring that everything is done according to plan and on schedule. But, in a project like this, the personal connection to the community and its people is just as important. It’s not just about the physical structure we’re building — it’s about restoring a symbol of hope and faith for the people of Eastford.

Out on John Perry Road, I feel like we’re doing just that. With every nail hammered, every board cut, and every piece of the project coming together, we’re not just building a church. We’re building a symbol of recovery, a new beginning, and most importantly, a home for the people who have supported each other through some dark times.

The new church has been designed to honor the original structure while incorporating modern, sustainable features. The Congregational Church of Eastford has been working with architects to create a building that is both functional and beautiful, one that serves the needs of the congregation for generations to come.

In addition to the sanctuary, the church will feature community spaces, classrooms for youth programs, and a fellowship hall — truly a place for members to gather, share meals, and continue the work of the church in their daily lives.

Over the coming months, the construction site will begin to resemble a church. The foundation will be poured, the framing will rise, and slowly but surely, the new building will take shape. And while the church won’t be ready for the congregation to return until next year, the progress we’re making today is a testament to the town’s resilience.

God has a plan for the Congregational Church of Eastford.

Courtesy photos

From left, Congregational Church of Eastford Pastor Mike Moran, Eric Payer of Church Development Services, who is the Construction Project Manager of the Congregational Church of Eastford rebuilding project, and CCE Associate Pastor Evan Burgess, at the groundbreaking on June 1.

A rendering of what the completed Congregational Church of Eastford building will look like when construction is complete.

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