Grow Strategy Team Update Summary
The discussion from the Grow Strategy Team update focused on the vision, planning, and progress of developing The Haven. The team is taking the process seriously while also finding joy in the work. They believe they are following God's guidance, reflecting on how the community of faith has remained dedicated to His leadership. The conversation highlights the large scope of the project, with the church having access to 27 acres of land. A suggestion was made to sell some of the land, but the elders emphasized trusting in God's plans.
A key turning point in this discussion is the realization that the original building on the property was not well-positioned or sufficient in size for the community’s needs. The Haven, a broader community development initiative, was born from this challenge. The Haven will serve as the home for Grace Community Bible Church but is envisioned as more than just a church—it will be a destination where the local community can gather and engage in activities throughout the week. There is also a form on the website, found under the GROW tab, for those who want to be involved in the process and/or offer up their expertise/talents.
The newly painted Grow mural in the lobby will be used to communicate more frequent updates regarding The Haven, so be on the lookout over the coming weeks.
Infrastructure improvements are also being addressed. The property currently lacks a necessary road for accessibility, but through collaboration with another church, an easement has been secured to build this crucial road off 41, coming up through the middle of The Haven.
Another major development is the proposal for a 36,000-square-foot facility—more than double the size of our current space. Initially, the design was focused on a single-story structure, but as needs evolved and space constraints became apparent, the idea of a multi-level facility was introduced. The overall site plan includes 5 acres for the core church facilities and an additional 2 and a half acres designated for a retention pond to manage the water table. Parking will be a critical consideration, with plans for around 320 parking spaces.
The plans include multiple community-focused elements, such as a coffee shop or food trucks, concessions for the athletic fields, a counseling center, and other spaces designed to serve people beyond traditional church services. There is also a strong emphasis on sports and recreation, with efforts to partner with FCA and incorporate a gymnasium featuring courts for pickleball, basketball, volleyball, and tennis. The funds for these fields will be raised separately from our current Grow Initiative. The teams' faith-driven approach has led to surprising opportunities, including connections with professionals specializing in financing and athletic field design. Notably, a former Major League Baseball player, Ryan Reed, was introduced to assist in the design of the athletic facilities as he works for the top selling turf company in the country.
While planning and expansion are moving forward, the church leadership remains committed to allowing God to guide the process. They acknowledge that the project is ambitious and want to ensure that every decision aligns with His will. If something is not meant to happen, they are prepared to step back. Throughout the discussion, there is a recurring theme of faith, prayer, and trust in divine direction.
Ultimately, The Haven is not just about building a larger church facility but creating a place where the entire community can thrive—a space designed for worship, fellowship, recreation, and service, all under the guiding hand of God.