Future Grace Phase Two

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Future Grace Campaign?
A: It is a six-week focus in prayer, study of the Word, worship and fellowship about the future of Grace. Our individual focus will be to discern God’s will as to what monetary gift we can each give toward the building project ahead. Every person at Grace will be encouraged to give.

Q: How is the money being used?
A: We are giving money to provide for the teaching and discipleship ministry of Grace. All monies given and pledged will be used toward this purpose with any surplus used to reduce existing debt.

Q: Why do we need to build?
A: Our educational space is full and our classes are growing. The elders and congregation are in agreement that God is leading us to give now to provide the necessary space to teach and disciple those currently attending Grace as well as to provide for the future.

Q: Will the new building be large enough to meet the needs of our church?
A: We are building according to what allows us to remain good stewards in our giving and planning.

Based on our current attendance and giving patterns as a church, this plan allows us to respond to growth needs without placing an undue burden on our church.

If God allows our growth to exceed our expanded facilities, we will look for creative ways to provide for ministry within the space that we have been given and seek the Lord regarding future expansions.

Q: Are there future plans to build more?
A: Yes. This building is part of a master plan that was designed when we purchased this property. As need arises and as resources are available, we will seek the Lord regarding future phases of the master plan.

Q: How does our church view the issue of incurring debt?
A: The leadership of Grace believes that there are some types of debt that are acceptable. Just as most people believe mortgage debt is acceptable when it is incurred wisely and responsibly, so we believe that debt for land and buildings is acceptable when 1) there is a clear plan for debt repayment, 2) the value of the building exceeds the amount borrowed, and 3) the debt does not hinder our ability to do ministry by putting undue strain on our budget. In light of these principles, we believe debt is acceptable for this building project.

Q: Are buildings necessary to make disciples?
A: Our church’s mission remains to build spiritually healthy people for ministry in the world. We believe that God uses physical resources and material means to advance His kingdom and to accomplish His purposes. We need physical space to gather for all ministries. Some form of building will always be used for ministry. We believe God has called us to provide that space.

Q: When will I have to decide what to give?
A: The week of April 28 – May 3 has been designated as Household Decision Meeting Week. It is during this week that everyone in our church is being encouraged to make his or her final decision as to what God is leading each one to give. On Sunday, May 4, the congregation of Grace will give in two ways: a cash offering and a three-year pledge commitment.

Q: Why am I being asked to give an initial cash offering and a 3-year pledge?
A: Both components are vital to Future Grace. The greater the cash offering, the smaller the amount we will need to borrow. Cash offerings given on May 4 will save the church interest and increase the monies available for the building.

The ongoing pledge enables you to give far more than is possible at one time. (See My Giving Potential.)

Q: Can I give another cash offering later than May 4?
A: Yes. Any cash offering given after May 4 will go towards the construction loan.

Q: Can my tithe be designated to go towards this building project?
A: We encourage you to continue to give your tithe to the regular weekly offering at Grace while you give your pledge offering to the Future Grace Giving Campaign. This will enable Grace to continue to carry on ministry while we build the proposed building.

If you are not a regular giver to Grace, we encourage you to begin making adjustments to your lifestyle and budget to allow you to give on a regular basis to the church.

If you give regularly to Grace and doing so limits your ability to pledge to the Future Grace Giving Campaign, we thank you for your faithfulness in giving and encourage you to take joy in whatever you are able to pledge.

Q: I have never been involved in a decision-making process like this. How will I know what to do?
A: The Future Grace packet materials are a starting point for you to begin to consider how all this can be accomplished. The church as a whole will be in prayer throughout this season, asking God to expand our understanding and to guide our steps. A Principles In Giving seminar is being offered to any who desire further discussion and prayer.

Giving will help you grow spiritually as you depend upon God and exercise faith; it will deepen your commitment to God’s purposes for Grace; and it will increase your joy in the Lord. Paul said in Philippians 4:17, “Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account.”

Q: Will my financial gifts be kept confidential?
A: A designated Campaign Finance Team will record your gifts. All gifts will be kept confidential within this Finance Team.

Q: As a parent, what are ways that I can involve my children?
A: The most important thing that you can do is let your children see how you are seeking God in the process of deciding how to give to Future Grace. Use prayer at mealtime and bedtime along with the Devotional Guide to help them see how God gives us all things through Christ. Encourage your children to give from their own resources as well.

Q: I only attend worship at Grace. Can I be involved in the Future Grace campaign?
A: One of the major goals of this giving campaign is to involve more people in the discipleship ministries of our church. We encourage you to take advantage of this season in our church to join a Community Group or Sunday School class for spiritual growth and fellowship.

Q: I want to give more than just my money. How can I become involved in the ministry of Grace?
A: There are various ministry opportunities available at Grace. You can pick up information at the Welcome Center or contact one of the staff in the church office for more details (377-8997). If you have not done so already, we encourage you to attend a New Members Class and be in covenant relationship with Grace.

Q: I am in a season of life that prevents me from making a significant financial contribution to Future Grace. What should I do?
A: The greatest contribution anyone makes to Grace is to faithfully live in covenant with the church. We encourage you to pray for and participate in the ministries of Grace and be at peace about whatever God leads you to give.

Q: Who can I contact if I have a question that is not listed here?
A: Aaron Mitchell: 332-8481, themitchells@lwol.com
J.C. Haynes: 376-4241, hayneshome@comcast.net
John Calton: 373-2071, jacalton@comcast.net.
You may also contact any of the church staff (377-8997).

Future Grace Phase Two