HOW WERE OUR CHURCH’S NEEDS DETERMINED?

A study of our church’s needs was conducted during 1998 by the Building Committee. At that time a number of different needs were determined. After preliminary design work was completed, it was determined that we needed more land to expand our ministry. This need was resolved last year when the Blevin’s Property was purchased.

WHAT RENOVATION AND/OR CONSTRUCTIONS IS PLANNED?

Our Building Committee has been working diligently to determine the best course of action. At this point, their recommendation is that we construct a new sanctuary with approximately 250 seats, additional office space and room for the music department.

WHY IS THE NEW SANCTUARY THE TOP PRIORITY?

Worship services receive the highest level of participation in the typical church and First Presbyterian of Simpsonville is no different. We feel we are addressing First Presbyterian’s highest priority

HOW LONG WILL THE BUILDING TOMORROW TOGETHER CAMPAIGN LAST?

The campaign will begin and end this spring, but Building Tomorrow Together is a continuing program through the year 2001. New members during that time will also be given an opportunity to contribute.

WHY HAVE WE EMPLOYED AN OUTSIDE CONSULTANT TO HELP US RAISE MONEY?

A Capital Stewardship Campaign is a large endeavor that requires expertise and time commitment we do not have available internally. The expenditures we are incurring are investments in the success of the campaign. In the opinion of our church leaders, this investment makes good sense.

WHY CAN’T THIS FINANCING BE DONE THROUGH REGULAR BUDGET PROCEDURES WITHOUT A SPECIAL CAMPAIGN?

The established budget is for the ongoing, day to day services and programs of our church and it’s outreach ministries. This special capital campaign will enable us to continue and expand these programs while maintaining our high level of benevolence giving.

WHAT IS MEANT BY SACRIFICIAL GIVING?

Sacrificial giving requires a measure of stewardship above and beyond regular tithes and offerings. It is regular giving - and then some- with guidance from the Holy Spirit. It requires a reassessment of our spending and lifestyle priorities, readjustment of commitments, and reallocation of resources. Sacrificial giving cost the giver something. In II Samuel 24:24, Davis said, “I will not offer as a sacrifice to God that which costs me nothing.” Pray about what may be given to further the Kingdom of God.

WHEN WILL COMMITMENTS BE RECEIVED AND FOR HOW LONG?

Each person will be given the opportunity to make a commitment to the Building Tomorrow Together Campaign on Sunday, April 1, 2001 at the conclusion of our Celebration Sunday Service. Commitments to this campaign are for three years, and are expected to be gifts over and above our regular pledges, tithes and offerings for ongoing ministry needs.

WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS?

Preliminary designs are currently being developed by the architect. The building committee is currently working with the architect to finalize these plans.