“For we walk by faith, not by sight.”
2 Corinthians 5:7
Why do we want a permanent church home?
Our number one goal in finding a more permanent space is to be good stewards of what God is providing for our church. We will pursue a facility that allows for us to be a light in a dark and hurting world by continuing to make disciples that live and love like Jesus. We will not deviate from the vision and the mission God has given to Lightpoint church. The future space will provide an environment that is safe and inviting, where relationships are built and cultivated so that we can walk out our mission. A permanent space would allow for more opportunities to hold life groups, outreaches sponsored by our Be The Church ministry, and a place for the community to come.
Who does the next step Fund serve?
The next step fund serves all members of Lightpoint Church by financially planning, pursuing and participating in God’s lead to secure a future home that will shine the light of Jesus into a dark and hurting world.
Who will be responsible for making the final decision on the leasing or purchasing of a new facility? Will there be a next step committee/advisory board?
The Elders of Lightpoint Church will ultimately make the final decision on our next facility. As we move through this process we will be inviting others to be involved. Those that have expertise and experience in facility management, leasing, renovations, etc... will be invited so that we can make the wisest decision on our Next Step.
Who can guide us through the process of launching the next step campaign, and in all aspects moving forward?
We are currently working with a commercial realtor that has firsthand experience in planting churches and helping churches find locations that best fit their needs and target areas. The realtor we are working with has been instrumental in advising Pastor Chad during the startup phase of Lightpoint Church and continues to be a resource as we take this next step of faith. We are also working with local realtors that can help us identify potential properties that will meet our needs for a future home.
What purpose will the next step fund serve?
The next step fund will be used for acquiring a more permanent church location. This can be used but is not limited to; leasing a property, renting a property or purchasing a property. The funds will be made available for any remodeling/renovations needed, purchase of equipment needed to conduct services and other events that will be hosted at the site.
what additional furnishings would need to be purchased FOR OUR FUTURE HOME?
Chairs, Audio and Sound Equipment, Elements to help make our LP Family space fun and engaging for each age group so that they can learn what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. Furniture that will assist in creating a safe and relational environment.
what additional charges will we incur that we are not currently paying now?
We will want to make the space our own so this will mean that we will have projects and expenses that will enable us to do so. Creating space for the Family Ministry, Lasting Impressions, office space, and a worship space that will provide opportunities to grow and improve what we do on Sunday mornings. We will need to cover the cost of any improvements we make to the space, any repairs that need to be made once we get in the space, cleaning, and utilities that come with having our own space. The cost to renovate a space can range from $80 - $100 per square foot depending on the scope of the renovations.
What specifics are we looking for in a future home such as square footage, parking, etc…?
We currently rent approximately 10,000 square feet at McCormick Elementary, but do not utilize all of this space. After talking with others that have taken this similar step in church planting, we believe a realistic space would be approximately 6,000- 10,000 square feet. This will allow us to have a worship center that will seat roughly 180 people, LP Juniors and LP kids areas that can be utilized by our students as well, along with a space that is adequate for creating a welcoming and engaging space for connection and building relationships. Our goal is to find a space that has a parking lot which allows for one space for every two people.
What dollar amount would be needed to furnish a new church building or leased space?
Our desire as the leadership of Lightpoint Church is to not take on debt for our next home so we have made the decision to start the process of putting funds aside that will go toward the expenses of a new home. We are already in the process of finding the next home for Lightpoint Church.
The amount needed to furnish and renovate will be determined by the space chosen for our next home. We have currently set a goal of $500,000 to assist in covering any cost related to our “Next Step.” We understand that this is a lot of money however we are trusting God will provide and will continue to follow His leading.
What considerations have been given to partnering with another church in the Miami Township area?
We have met with and attempted to partner with multiple churches in the area but none of these conversations have led to anything that will currently work for Lightpoint Church. We will remain open to the possibility of a partnership and will pursue any opportunities that present themselves. We will not enter into a partnership that limits Lightpoint Church carrying out the vision and mission that God has given us.
When is the launch of the next step fund?
Currently - Individuals have already been designating funds toward this step of faith, however, we are currently asking people to present their one year commitment on October 20th, 2019 during our service. At that time, people may begin contributing to the next step fund.
Where will the future home of Lightpoint Church be located?
We believe that God has the perfect place designed for Lightpoint Church and we believe that we are called to minister to the Miami Township area. We are always open to the leading of the Holy Spirit, but will intentionally pursue locations in Miami Township.
Have we considered opening an investment account to help our next step fund to grow as we wait?
Currently our next step funds are placed in a money market account that is gaining interest. Every dollar given toward the next step fund will be moved over to this account so that it can grow as we wait for God’s leading for our next home.
If you have additional questions about our next step, please click the contact us link below. If you would like to give towards our next step, please click the give here link below.