Re-purposed pews used to create Tabernacle at St. Paul’s Catholic Church

The Salvation Army’s Dartmouth Community Church has moved from its original building, but the 70 year-old pews from the church were re-purposed for new projects. Leftover pews that couldn’t be sold were given to members of The Atlantic Woodworkers Association.

The Atlantic Woodworkers Association has strong ties to The Salvation Army. For the past 25 years the association has built 200 toys each year for children during Christmas. 

John Woods, a member of The Atlantic Woodworkers Association was wondering what to do with the two pews that he received when he was contacted by St. Paul’s Deacon, Robert Doyle. Robert requested that he make a new Tabernacle for use during Easter Triduum in only one month. The pews could not have come at a better time.

“I wasn’t sure that I would be able to complete the project as I work full-time,” says John Woods, “But I said that I would do my best.  The Salvation Army pews were a God-send.”

Woods was able to create a new Tabernacle from one of the pews and is currently building two matching candle stands to be placed on either side of the Tabernacle with the remaining pew.

St. Paul’s Catholic Church was extremely happy with John’s work and glad that the re-purposed pews were able to be used to create a beautiful addition to their church.

The Salvation Army Dartmouth Church services are now being held at East Dartmouth Community Centre (50 Caledonia Road).