Update 7/30/2019

Three weeks have passed since we last posted here on the blog.  Somehow, the summer months have a way of flying by like that!  Between camps, vacations, the July 4th holiday, and various other summer commitments, the core building team has not met in person as much this month.  However, we have tried to be faithful to keep working on things as each person is able.

As mentioned in the last post, the core team has been working to wrap up a pre-design packet to hand to an architect.  In the process of fine tuning it, we have needed to camp out on a few sections more than anticipated in an effort to be as accurate and unified as possible.  But it is SO close to being ready!  We've had some conversations with local architects and hope to soon determine whose services we will use for some initial facility sketches.

We have also been working to coordinate what needs to happen with remaining demolition cleanup.  In the meantime, we have an iconic "stairway to heaven" on the property that has people talking.  Now to come up with a clever message for the sign...

Thanks for continuing to pray.  Please pray for these things...

--For perseverance and encouragement for the core building team and their families

--Praise God that He continues to provide.  May we make His name great through this process!

--For the team's decision as they choose an architect

--For hearts of unity and gratitude among the people of our church

Update 7/8/19

Look at the progress! The demo crew was amazed by how much rebar was in the structures, and because of it, they had to crunch away at the concrete walls and roof more slowly than originally anticipated.  But the hotel buildings are down!  The property will look much like this for the next week or two as the demolition machines must be pulled away for some other jobs with tight deadlines.  But they will be back in the coming weeks to finish clean up of the site.

Other news is that the core building team is in the process of procuring an architect to work on initial concept design drawings.  In preparation for that work, the team is finishing up a large pre-design document that will be given to the architect team.  The document is a culmination of much of the work and analysis done to this point as it seeks to outline space requirements and needs, goals, and values for each ministry space.  Please be praying for continued wisdom and discernment as we edit and finalize this step.

Thanks for reading, seeking to stay updated, and for praying!  Know that the teams of people involved in the building project desire to keep communication open and flowing among our church body.  If you have questions, thoughts, or just want to hear more, please reach out to a core building team member.  Their names and photos are below.  

Prayer requests

-That we would all continue to value the Gospel and people over programs and buildings

-May the buzz about what is happening at the property prompt conversations about God, church, and faith all across Manhattan

-That God would continue to guide and provide, writing a story through our church that only He can write

-Pray for energy and encouragement for the various teams and volunteers serving our church

Core Building Team Members

Cody and Hannah Canterbury

Eric and Anna Nielson

Justin and Kristey Wiebers

Brad and Kira Buser

Tony and Carmen Classen