Building Project Update – 7.16.07

We have had record days and things have never been better at our church, but it is very important that I share some poignant information with you regarding our Honoring His Name Capital Campaign, in hopes it will give you a crystal clear picture of where we stand. I don’t want to say that we are in trouble, but we are very behind schedule.

Our greatest challenge is those who have made commitments and have yet to fulfill them. You know that I love you more than I can explain, but it’s out of this love that I need to reveal this financial data in regards to this project.

About a year ago, we received pledges for $17,719,752.00 and it’s crucial that we receive these monies on time. We are now at the halfway point of the HHN Campaign, and this means (in a perfect world) that we should be 53 percent of the way through our commitments at $8.3 million received.  However, we are only 31 percent of the way to our goal, having received $5,507,586.84, with $12,212,165.16 still to be given.  

Please know that I’m not worried or upset about this in any way.  I am only asking you to please take a look at these graphs and what you’ve pledged, and to do your best to try to get your personal giving at least to the 50 percent mark, if at all possible.  I know it’s difficult because I’ve not talked about this in church and have elected to communicate our progress via these letters, and I’m afraid the campaign has been a little out of sight/out of mind for some.

We are full steam ahead with the building project itself. As of today, we are moving through the city approval process and finishing up our architectural design drawings of our new 3,500-seat auditorium. As you can see, it comprises a proposed café and bookstore, which may or may not be included in the first phase. See Image 1.

We have acquired additional acreage from Caltrans, which will be used for an expanded play-ground, parking, and possible roadway on the backside of the property. See Image 2.  So far we are on target, and we hope to begin breaking ground within 12 months.

I intend for this letter to be a reminder and an extra boost to get us back on track.  I want to thank  the many who are on target and those who have completely fulfilled their pledges.  At the same time, I want to be a source of encouragement to those who have fallen behind, and simply paint a true picture of where we stand in hopes that we can reenergize this project! In just a couple of years, there will be a new 3,500-seat auditorium where hundreds of thousands will come to know Jesus Christ…and each of you will have done your part!  Prayer is powerful, so please continue to keep all aspects of this project in your prayers.  Thank you for your patience, understanding, and support.