Life Together
After months of work and years of church conversations, the Building Project Task Force proudly presents this project to the congregation. As Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 4:7, “we have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us.” On the eve of our church house’s 100th anniversary at 501 West Fifth, what better way to celebrate than by tending this treasure we share and deepening our commitments to accessibility, sustainability, hospitality, and legacy!
Hear More About The Building Project
Project Priorities
Accessibility
- New parking lot with increased handicapped parking spots, a driveway dropoff near the handicapped-accessible door, and a ramp from the parking lot up to the door level
- New sound system in the Sanctuary with cutting-edge technology, with particular attention to those experiencing hearing loss
Sustainability
- New energy management system to ensure more flexibility in isolating zones to heat and cool, and new blower system to power the Sanctuary with heat and air
- Installation of solar panels on the roof and electric vehicle chargers in the parking lot to offset energy costs, create revenue for the church, and grow our practices of sustainability
Hospitality
- New outdoor pavilion for gathering and new playground for our youngest members
- New signage and security cameras to aid in the experience of the church house
- First floor refresh with new flooring and minor upgrades to the Baraca Room
- Completion of prep kitchen with new appliances and cabinetry
Legacy
- Beautiful landscaping, a sacred garden, and a columbarium to remember the saints
- Patio space with inscribed pavers of our “great cloud of witnesses”
Building Project FAQ
What is the cost of the project?
The estimated cost is $2 million.
When will we know the final cost?
We will likely pursue a course of action called “design build,” which enables us to design the details and finishes of the project alongside a general contractor to save cost and time.
Who is leading this project?
The Building Project Task Force includes Gary Knight (co-chair), Rick Matthews (co-chair), John Baxley, Mary Foskett, Rayce Lamb, Lynn Rhoades, Robert Parker, and Kim Wilkinson.
How soon can we get started?
One goal of this project is for it to include “stand-alone” projects that can be accomplished without waiting on others to start. As soon as the church votes to approve the project, we’ll get started!
Life Together Capital Campaign FAQ
When does the campaign start?
The silent phase of the campaign occurs in August, and the public phase begins September 8. Commitment Sunday is October 13, & we’ll announce the total raised on October 20.
How does a capital campaign work? And how do I participate?
Capital campaigns are an opportunity to give over and above our regular gifts to the church to accomplish a large project. Gifts of any kind and any size can be given through all the regular channels (online billpay, church website, by check or cash, monthly bank drafts, stock transfers). This campaign will run for two years.
Who is giving leadership to the capital campaign?
The campaign is chaired by Terri Yates, and will be supported by the Finance Committee (Scott Hudgins, Joani Hughes, Gary Knight, David Smelcer, Matt Steen, Kara Thompson, Jim Tew, and Carol Wilkinson).