We believe God is calling Grace Fellowship to take a bold step of faith for the flourishing of our church family for years to come. This page is your starting point to explore the vision, need, and opportunity before us as we seek to acquire and renovate a new facility just down the street. As we trust in God’s grace and provision together, we invite you to:
- Learn more about the opportunity below
- Pray about how you might participate
- Consider how God has resourced you
- Respond as the Lord leads you
View our brochure for more details.
FAQ’s
Q: Why do we need to move? Can’t we just renovate our current building?
A: We’ve thoroughly evaluated renovation options, but our current building simply cannot accommodate the space we need for effective ministry. The structural limitations, parking constraints, and fire code restrictions cannot be resolved through renovation. After much prayer and professional consultation, moving to a larger facility is the most practical and cost-effective solution.
Q: What process did you go through to select this particular building over other options?
A: We worked with two professional real estate brokers for over 8 months and looked at a number of properties in the area, most of which were industrial buildings. All other options were less attractively located, more expensive per square foot, and had significantly less parking availability.
Q: Where is the new facility located?
A: The new facility is just one block away from our current location, keeping us in the same community we’ve served for years while providing the space we need to serve effectively.
Q: What will happen to our current building?
A: Our current building will be sold as part of financing this project. The proceeds from the sale will go directly toward purchasing and improving the new facility.
Q: How will this affect our church culture and sense of intimacy?
A: We’re committed to preserving the relational culture that makes Grace Fellowship unique. Intimacy comes from intentional relationships, not physical constraints. The new facility will actually provide better spaces for small groups, one-on-one discipleship, and meaningful connections. We’ll maintain our two-service format with adequate time for fellowship between services.
Q: How much will this project cost, and how will it be funded?
A: The total cost is approximately $23 million. We’ll contribute over $8 million through the sale of our current building and existing reserves, leaving a capital campaign goal of approximately $15 million to be raised from our congregation.
Q: Will the church take on long-term debt?
A: No. We’re committed to remaining debt-free. We’ll use short-term bridge financing to facilitate the transition, allowing time for pledges to be fulfilled and our current building to be sold. We will not move forward unless our financial foundation is strong.
Q: What if we don’t raise enough money?
A: We will only proceed if we have sufficient financial commitments from our congregation and confidence that we can raise the necessary funds without undue long-term debt.
Q: How long do I have to fulfill my pledge?
A: We hope to secure as much initial funding as possible to minimize interest costs. Pledges may be fulfilled over a three-year period, providing flexibility for different giving situations and timelines.
Q: Can I give stocks or other assets instead of cash?
A: Yes. We can accept stock donations, which may provide tax advantages for donors while maximizing the gift’s impact. Contact Gina Carpenter at [email protected] to coordinate stock transfers.
Q: How many people will the new facility accommodate?
A: Our current sanctuary accommodates 385 seats. The new sanctuary will provide more seating (preliminary estimates allow us to accommodate up to 650 seats) while maintaining an intimate worship atmosphere. We’ll be able to accommodate growth while keeping our preferred two-service format.
Q: What about parking? Will there be enough spaces?
A: Yes! The new facility includes 178 on-site parking spaces plus easy access to a significant number of additional spaces in adjacent lots if needed. This will eliminate the parking barriers many currently face.
Q: When would we actually move?
A: The timeline depends on fundraising progress and construction completion. We expect to finish the purchase of the new buildings in the first quarter of 2026, with construction, renovations, and move-in completed by the fourth quarter of 2026.
Q: Who made this decision?
A: The church elders have been researching and praying about our space needs for over a year. We also had a team of church members with significant experience in real estate development to help guide us through this process.
Q: How can I learn more or ask additional questions?
A: We encourage you to:
• Read the Project Overview
• Schedule a personal meeting with church leadership
Q: What if I have concerns about this project?
A: We welcome your concerns and questions! Please reach out to church leadership to discuss any hesitations or suggestions you might have. We want to ensure everyone feels heard and informed throughout this process.
Q: How will this project be managed and overseen?
A: Church leadership will provide complete transparency throughout the project, with regular updates on fundraising progress, construction milestones, and financial stewardship. We’re committed to careful oversight of every dollar contributed.
Q: Will our current ministries be disrupted during the transition?
A: We don’t foresee any disruption to our ongoing ministries. Detailed transition plans will ensure continuity of worship services, children’s programs, small groups, and other activities throughout the moving process.
Still have questions?
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to church leadership. We’re here to provide you with all the information you need to prayerfully consider participating in this exciting opportunity.
