Church Expansion
Celebration services are expected to take place in our new church in early 2012. The new church triples the space of the existing church providing room for a growing congregation.
In January 2012, inspections were underway and the platform in the sanctuary was being completed after which all of the carpet will be installed. Preparations are underway to move into the new church as soon as these tasks are completed.
The new church is being constructed behind the existing structure, which will be removed once the church is finished. Once this is done, the front of the church, which includes a portico that leads to an open foyer, will be built. In the meantime, congregants will enter through side entrances into the church. Unique features of the new church include Arts and Crafts-style construction and a future beautifully-landscaped promenade along the left side of the church linking the front with the Meditation Gardens. An expanse of glass overlooking the Meditation Gardens invites nature into the sanctuary.
The construction of a new church came on the heels of a three-year Capital Campaign in which congregants made pledges of approximately $800,000. Through the funded pledges and other generous donations, over $1 million was raised.
In addition to the Capital Campaign, a Christmas in autumn campaign in 2011, masterminded by Board President Harry Simmons, generated a tremendous response for interior needs and landscaping. In particular, all of the kitchen cabinets, a $30,000 sound system and a $10,000 projector were donated by three generous benefactors. Countless other donors provided funds for the 275 chairs in the new sanctuary, classroom and landscaping needs.
An official opening ceremony is planned for April, 2012.