Gateway to Grace FAQs
Why are we doing it?
Our vision has been and continues to be, “Seeking to know the Grace of God and to make it known to others.” However, our current facility severely hampers the pursuit and fulfillment of that objective. A larger facility with visibility will allow a place in our community for people to visit and to explore the Christian faith as well as to give our own body the space that we need to minister in a better way than we can in or current building.
What are we building?
The objective is to build an 8,000 sq. ft. building that will be visible in the community. Foyer, worship space, classrooms, cry room, parking, kitchen, more bathrooms, and a playground area will all be radical improvements from our current location. We are aiming for a sanctuary that will seat 250-275.
Where are we building it?
There are currently two locations that are being considered. First, we have purchased land on Kings Highway (Rt 3) in King George. At the same time, we are waiting to hear more about the possibility of building within a new development that is being proposed at the intersection of Rt 3 and Indiantown Rd. Both are very exciting prospects.
When will we occupy the new facility?
The initial phase of the Gateway to Grace Campaign will conclude in November when we announce the pledges received and celebrate what God has done in our church family. At that point, we should have a much better idea of where we stand financially. Our hope is that we could occupy a building within 2-3 years. When we break ground will depend upon how much money is raised in the capital campaign, which location is chosen, current building cost, and how quickly the county will process their work as it relates to permits, inspections, etc.
How much will the new facility cost?
Cost expectation is $2+ million.
How will we pay for it?
Payment for the building and land development will be a combination of current assets, pledges from the campaign, and a construction loan.
What is a Capital Stewardship Campaign?
A capital campaign is a church project that seeks pledged donations from members and friends of the congregation to be used in paying for a major construction project, in our case, a building.
What about the annual budget?
Capital giving is, by definition, above and beyond what people give to support the annual ministry and mission of the church.
How much money are we hoping to raise through the Capital Stewardship Campaign?
$500,000 is likely our minimum to move forward with ground breaking. The session wants to keep debt payment at an appropriate level. Giving to the campaign will allow us to minimize debt incurred as well as to free up funds from the operating budget for other ministry needs.
What forms of contributions will be accepted?
Contributions can be made by cash or check. Other forms of contributions can include the transference of title to marketable stocks, bonds, real estate, etc. We are currently working the details to allow contributions on the Gateway to Grace web page. Giving to the general fund will continue to be made in our worship services.
Will I be pressured to make a pledge?
No. Participation in the campaign and how much you give will be entirely up to you. All members and friends will be given the opportunity to contribute if they wish to do so.
Who receives pledge cards?
Members of Grace Pres., as well as some previous members of the church will be asked to prayerfully consider supporting the church.
Why make a pledge?
The church will need to commit itself to long term building plans as well as to a construction loan during the period of this campaign. The church cannot make thoughtful, wise decisions without thoughtful, intentional pledges from the congregation. If everyone in the congregation intentionally underestimated their commitment, the church might under build (costing more money in the long run). If people significantly overestimate their pledges, the church could easily take on more than it could handle.
What is an average gift?
What should a capital gift be? Stewardship is not about equal gifts but about equal sacrifice. There is no formula for determining that pledge, nor is there an "average gift" kind of benchmark. Instead of measuring your gift by the dollar amount, use the "measures" below:
Does this investment make a difference to me? Does this gift change me, change my whole commitment level?
Was this a prayerful decision seeking God's will …did I even invite God to be a part of this decision process?
Did I have a real conversation about this decision … with my spouse, children, family, church family, etc.?
Did I learn something about commitment and giving? Did I take a step of faith that deepens my own discipleship?
If everyone else in the church made a sacrifice equal to my own (in terms of commitment rather than dollars), would God be honored by that level of commitment/investment?
Do you have to be a church member to participate in the campaign?
No. Participation in the campaign is a personal decision for each of us, and anyone may contribute to God’s work in our church.
When do I get a pledge card/make a pledge?
If you have not already received a pledge card, you should receive one in a mailing that we plan on sending October 29th, 2018. We have been studying stewardship and generosity so that members have plenty of time to prepare for their decision in prayer and to make their commitments together as an act of worship. Commitment Sunday is November 4th.
When am I expected to begin giving?
Pledge cards will be turned in on Commitment Sunday on November 4th, 2018. The official day for members to begin paying their pledges is November 18th (Announcement Sunday), but members are welcome to begin paying any time they want. You may give your entire pledge in one contribution, or spread it over the three year period. Pledges can be paid by cash or check. “Gifts in-kind” can also be given, such as marketable stocks, bonds, real estate, etc. We are working on establishing a link on the Gateway to Grace web page that will allow for online giving o the campaign.
Can I update my commitment after my initial pledge is made?
Yes, you may update your commitment at any time. A pledge is not a contract. You may update your commitment at any time. If your circumstances change significantly, then your commitment pledge should also change. Good surprises happen at least as often as difficult surprises.
If I can’t give a large amount, does my pledge really matter?
Absolutely! All pledges matter, regardless of amount, because we all participate according to our ability. God multiplies our giving. The motto of the “Gateway to Grace” campaign is the principle “equal sacrifices, not equal gifts.” We want everyone to pray and to support this project regardless of the size of their gift.
How long will my commitment be?
Most commitments are for a three year period.
What if we do not get all the money?
The church cannot make its best decisions about how to make the projects happen until we have a real picture of what financial resources are available. Once we know what resources we have to work with, our leaders will adjust the plan to bring to the congregation. There are many factors and options that will be before us. Projecting a definite plan is speculation until we know what resources we have to work with. The decision before us is, “What resources can we provide over the next three years?” Obviously, as more money is raised, more options and better options are available to us.
How may I prepare to participate?
Use the devotional guide as well as Sunday school and small group material. Pray for discernment, inviting God to show you what He wants to do in and through you to accomplish His will and vision for Grace Presbyterian Church. Choose to make your personal commitment. Consider the following Scripture passages on stewardship:
1 Corinthians 16:2
Proverbs 11:25
Proverbs 3:5-9
2 Corinthians 8:7
Acts 20:35
Luke 6:38
Psalm 116:12