Build The Future
AT OUR ANNUAL VISION AND BUSINESS MEETING, WE SHARED EXCITING VISION ABOUT THE FUTURE OF OUR CHURCH.
BUILD THE FUTURE. STEWARD TO SUSTAIN.
In February 2022, we posed a straightforward yet thought-provoking question to ignite both creativity and faith: “What is the next big thing that God is calling us to do?”
The whiteboard in the foyer was full of inspiring responses. Consequently, on April 1, 2022, the Elders and their wives congregated for a dedicated time to pray and discus. Our intention was to delve into these responses and attune ourselves to the voice of the Lord. We wanted to discern what the Lord was speaking.
In the end, what seemed good to us and the Holy Spirit was a two-pronged next-step approach to the “next big thing.”
- Steward to sustain
- Build for the future
Starts with stewarding
Initially, we recognized the untapped potential of our facilities. The guidance we received was to steward and give attention to what God has already blessed us with. Consequently, we’ve already undertaken some essential improvements. For instance, we’ve wired our shelter house for electricity, added a light over the volleyball court, revamped our exterior landscaping to mirror the welcoming atmosphere within the building, and we remodeled the children’s ministry wing and dedicated the Ridge Matthews’ Potter’s Kids Room in early 2024.
Simultaneously, we’ve felt a compelling call to build for the future, a sentiment that resonated strongly among us all. This idea dominated the whiteboard responses and our discussions. Build for the future encompasses two vital projects.
Then begins building
Firstly, we’re determined to alleviate the bottleneck and congestion often experienced at the north annex entrance. The simultaneous influx of families checking in children and worshippers entering from the north parking lot leads to a congested annex breezeway. Our plan involves extending the existing annex walls and roof line to connect with the main church building. This expansion will substantially increase the entrance space, enabling us to establish a new child check-in station, new entrances for the nursery and Potter’s Kids, and a dedicated children’s ministry office.
Second, our youth and college-aged ministries need a dedicated home. Over the span of eighteen years, we’ve been acutely aware of the necessity for a space they can truly call their own. The current youth “sanctuary” within the gym is frequently dismantled to accommodate various church functions and sports events. Our youth group is growing — both in numbers and in their love for the Lord. Movement, our young adult ministry, is seeing 30-40 college-aged individuals every Tuesday night!
Exciting Plans to Build the Future!
We are thrilled to unveil our vision for an incredible new addition on the east side of the gym! With over 9,000 square feet of ministry space that will transform our church community. Picture three spacious classrooms equipped with sinks and water access, perfect for large or small class sizes!
At the heart of this expansion will be a stunning 3,300 square foot worship center. As you enter through the grand entry off the south parking lot, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking 2-story, 3,000 square foot hospitality space. The second level opens to a generous balcony area, ideal for Bible study groups and social gatherings, perfect for softball viewing, and providing a unique perspective overlooking the worship center.
But that’s not all! The upper level will feature a mezzanine and a catwalk leading to two large classrooms with potential to serve as overflow for Potter’s Kids, a dedicated Jr. High room, and a dedicated college age room… Plus, we’re adding 2,500 square feet of outdoor patio space complete with a built-in fire pit, perfect for cozy gatherings and fellowship under the stars. Off the south side hospitality space there will be prayer and ministry room and an office space for staff.
With direct access to the gym and convenient entry from the south parking lot, this addition is designed to enhance our church and strengthen our ability to minister to and disciple the next generation. This is not just a plan; it’s the future of New Life Church, and we can’t wait to embark on this exciting journey together!
It is time
It has become evident that the time has arrived to take a step of faith. It’s time to make a substantial investment in the younger generation!
This visionary pursuit to Build the Future has an initial budget of $1.5 million dollars for phase one. Phase one includes the worship center, classrooms, and bathrooms. While this might seem like a substantial figure to some, it pales in comparison to the abundance of our God.
