FAr more abundantly campaign Q&A's
Q: Are you planning to use volunteer help to build with the Southern Baptists? From other churches out of the area?
A: We are open and hopeful for any volunteers, but have yet to find a group that could help us with building the size building we need. Most of the SBC ministries referred to no longer exist, and those who do, don't help with buildings over a certain size. We are still actively looking for one that may be able to help us.
Q: Are there Christian financial institutions who specialize in low interest church loans?
A: The Rocky Mountain Foundation offers loans and investments for Colorado Southern Baptist churches. Celebration Church has invested with the Rocky Mountain Foundation in the past. There are several other Christian financial institutions as well, but in our research, we have been able to secure better loan rates from local lenders.
Q: Are you still using Building God’s Way?
A: Yes and no, We had designs for a building from the architects at Building God’s Way, but it has proven to be our most expensive option so far. We are currently evaluating less expensive designs to build.
Q: Can I offer my work/trades at a discount or free for the new building? Or to any maintenance or repairs needed for a purchased building?
A: Absolutely! We love it when our people are able to use the gifts God has given them to help! Keep in mind that building this building is not a small task, and the work may end up being fairly significant depending on your area of expertise. If you would like to donate your resources or labor in a non financial way come talk to us!
Q: How will we stay updated on how much money has been raised?
A: We will move one rock from the left to the right side of the stage as money and pledges are recorded. Each rock signifies $100,000 in cash and/or pledges. We will also provide updates on the Far More Abundantly page of the Celebration Church website. https://celebrationmontrose.org/far-more-abundantly
Q: What’s the time frame for raising the money and for building/buying?
A: The Capital Campaign will be running for the next 3 years as pledges and one time donations come in.
If we decide to build, we would start as soon as we have the funds to move forward. Depending on a few different factors, (I.E. campaign giving, loans, governmental red tape, etc.…), that may happen within 6 months, or it may take longer. Also, we need to understand the reality of the current market we are in. The longer we wait, the more it will cost. Material & labor prices are estimated to increase 10-15% per year.
When it comes to buying, inventory is frustratingly low for buildings that would be large enough for us. Because of this, we are beholden to what/when something comes on the market. The key here is to make sure we have the resources to move if an opportunity becomes available. We have seen a few of these opportunities come and go without us having the resources to move on them.
Q: Is there a specific deadline date in mind to decide whether to build or buy?
A: We are hoping to have most of the info we need by the end of the year to determine what the most realistic option for us will be. Currently, the most cost effective option is buying, but if we get enough funds to build, that is likely the direction we will take.
Q: Is any gift too small?
A: No, we serve a God that can do much with a little. Remember, Jesus fed 5,000 people with five loaves and two small fish! Our goal is 100% participation by the Celebration Church family. We are a body that needs all its members participating and looking for God to work. Whatever help you can offer to advance the mission, is wonderfully significant. Keep in mind also, that even pledges for small amounts given weekly add up to significant amounts over 3 years.
Q: If/when we go to one service, what will that mean for Sunday school classes? Will they still be before the main worship service?
A: We hope and plan to always have Sunday School (D2) classes at Celebration. Regardless of service times, these classes will find a home in our new facility somehow!
Q: How much growth in attendance is organic and how much is transfer growth from other churches?
A: We have seen a lot of both actually. While there is certainly some transfer growth happening, a good portion of our growth has been new believers, along with people moving to Montrose for the first time. For those searching for a new church home, regardless of the reason, Celebration Church continues to be one of the most compelling options.
Q: Can we push the small group Sunday service idea to free up space?
A: This is good in theory, but some challenges arise. For example, many of the people who serve on Sunday mornings are the ones we would be asking to stay home. Additionally, the number of groups we would need to stay home would increase to unrealistic levels over time. So while we don't see this as a permanent solution, this option is still being considered as a future band-aid, until we find our new home.
Q: Why not split into multiple churches or use satellite campuses?
A: We have considered satellite churches in the past and will likely do so in the future also, but the problem that we run into in Montrose is the lack of commercial real estate, especially spaces that can accommodate a church. The other problem we encounter is real estate costs. Financially, managing two or three facilities is often much more expensive (and much more complicated) than one larger centralized location.
Q: Are we still going to do church plants?
A: Absolutely. Church leadership has been exploring real estate in other Western Slope communities, and through the Pastoral Institute of the Western Slope, Celebration Church is actively involved in revitalizing and assisting four different area churches with pulpit supply and interim pastors. One church just celebrated their first baptism in 20 years!
We are however trying to centralize our resources on this next facility in the coming years.
Q: How should we view all of the growth at Celebration?
A: It is God who sovereignly builds and determines the size of Celebration. Lostness in our area is estimated to be 90%, and our personal comfort can’t determine our neighbors’ eternal destiny. We all have certain things we prefer within the church, but we must be careful to not allow our preferences for the church to supersede God’s desires for the church. Jesus Christ died for the sins of the whole world, and if our sacrifices in personal preferences allow more to hear about Jesus, and grow in their faith, it is worth it.
Q: People are going to ask what buildings you are looking at in town. Can you share this?
A: We have looked at several options, including the J.C. Penny Building, The Movie Theater on Main street, the Russell Stover Factory, and others. Each one had their advantages and disadvantages. But even if they would have worked, we did not have the resources to move on them when they were available. The Far More Abundantly campaign helps to fix that!
Q: Does the $6-6.5 million include the renovation?
A: Yes, But this is a detailed estimation of buying and renovating a potential space of around 40,000 sq ft. Future potential buildings that would come available may vary from this estimate either up or down.
Q: Can the $9.6 building be built in phases and how much are each?
A: We do have phases built into the $9.6 million architectural designs. But, the $9.6 million would be to build the first phase of 24,000 sq ft. Beyond that, we do have a second phase that would increase the building to 53,000 sq ft if we were to ever need it. Cost for that is as of yet undetermined.
We do believe that reducing the floorplan for our next facility below 24,000 sq ft would not be worth the cost, especially considering our current facility is already 14,000 sq ft. The cost of this building is why we are considering other, cheaper options as well.
Q: Can we see the floor plans?
A: Yes, we have multiple floor plans, but please keep in mind that none of the plans we have are guaranteed to be built. Within the planning, building and design phases, a lot of changes happen. If you want to see the plans, come chat with us. And as we continue to move forward, we will keep you updated as we narrow down to the exact design we want.
Q: Can we make sure to have bigger doors in the building? People often stand in front of the doors. Ha-ha.
A: Thanks for the input! We will do our best to have a few large entryway doors in the next facility.
Q: As we move forward to build a mission rather than a church, will we work on also being a church that goes out on mission together or just stay in our new church building?
A: That is a great heart! We as elders share your desire for mission work. Our church body currently leads and serves in prison ministries, homeless ministries, anti-abortion ministries, evangelism ministries, disaster relief ministries, Christmas shoebox ministries, international missions, and church planting. If you would like to get more involved with any of these, come let us know!
Q: Will pledges be deducted monthly for the 3 year period?
A: No, Pledges are not automatically deducted unless you decide to set up recurring giving online. We do believe that online giving is the most effective way to ensure that your pledge is met. Otherwise, you will be responsible for writing a check each week/month to meet your pledge.
Q: Is online giving - electronic funds a necessity for this campaign?
A: No, you can give with a check, or with cash as well. Just make sure to mark on the envelope your name, and designate it to the “Far More Abundantly Campaign”.
We have however found that giving via check or cash, is far more inconsistent than automatic online giving. Most of us who give in person, end up unintentionally missing between 1-3 monthly tithes per year.
Q: Are state or federal grants available?
A: We have been looking into grants, and while we are not aware of any state/federal grants, there may be Christian organizations out there who can help us. If you are aware of any of these, please don't hesitate to contact us with the details.
Q: Have we thought of everything we could do to maximize our current facility? (Parking, Classrooms, Sanctuary, etc.…)
A: We believe the answer to this is yes. We could perhaps go outside of our walls to add classrooms, sanctuary space, bathrooms, offices, kids space, etc.… but we would be cannibalizing our parking lot. The simple reality is that we only have 3 acres, and pouring significantly more money into this facility will not yield us the return on our investment we might be hoping for.
Q: Can our nine acres be sold if we do not build a church on it?
A: The person who donated us the land has requested that we return it to him if we no longer intend to build a church on that property. We would honor his request.
Q: Would 100% of the money from the sale of the current building go for a balloon payment on a new note?
A: Whatever we sell this property for, would likely go toward the principle on the new property loan.
Q: Will the new church be built with the ability to have a school program?
Yes, we have considered this, and are open to it.
Q: How are we going to accommodate our growth for the next 3 years?
A: We have some ideas in mind that may help us make it work, including overflow rooms, and potential temporary locations, but we should continue to come to church expecting some tight Sundays!
A: We are open and hopeful for any volunteers, but have yet to find a group that could help us with building the size building we need. Most of the SBC ministries referred to no longer exist, and those who do, don't help with buildings over a certain size. We are still actively looking for one that may be able to help us.
Q: Are there Christian financial institutions who specialize in low interest church loans?
A: The Rocky Mountain Foundation offers loans and investments for Colorado Southern Baptist churches. Celebration Church has invested with the Rocky Mountain Foundation in the past. There are several other Christian financial institutions as well, but in our research, we have been able to secure better loan rates from local lenders.
Q: Are you still using Building God’s Way?
A: Yes and no, We had designs for a building from the architects at Building God’s Way, but it has proven to be our most expensive option so far. We are currently evaluating less expensive designs to build.
Q: Can I offer my work/trades at a discount or free for the new building? Or to any maintenance or repairs needed for a purchased building?
A: Absolutely! We love it when our people are able to use the gifts God has given them to help! Keep in mind that building this building is not a small task, and the work may end up being fairly significant depending on your area of expertise. If you would like to donate your resources or labor in a non financial way come talk to us!
Q: How will we stay updated on how much money has been raised?
A: We will move one rock from the left to the right side of the stage as money and pledges are recorded. Each rock signifies $100,000 in cash and/or pledges. We will also provide updates on the Far More Abundantly page of the Celebration Church website. https://celebrationmontrose.org/far-more-abundantly
Q: What’s the time frame for raising the money and for building/buying?
A: The Capital Campaign will be running for the next 3 years as pledges and one time donations come in.
If we decide to build, we would start as soon as we have the funds to move forward. Depending on a few different factors, (I.E. campaign giving, loans, governmental red tape, etc.…), that may happen within 6 months, or it may take longer. Also, we need to understand the reality of the current market we are in. The longer we wait, the more it will cost. Material & labor prices are estimated to increase 10-15% per year.
When it comes to buying, inventory is frustratingly low for buildings that would be large enough for us. Because of this, we are beholden to what/when something comes on the market. The key here is to make sure we have the resources to move if an opportunity becomes available. We have seen a few of these opportunities come and go without us having the resources to move on them.
Q: Is there a specific deadline date in mind to decide whether to build or buy?
A: We are hoping to have most of the info we need by the end of the year to determine what the most realistic option for us will be. Currently, the most cost effective option is buying, but if we get enough funds to build, that is likely the direction we will take.
Q: Is any gift too small?
A: No, we serve a God that can do much with a little. Remember, Jesus fed 5,000 people with five loaves and two small fish! Our goal is 100% participation by the Celebration Church family. We are a body that needs all its members participating and looking for God to work. Whatever help you can offer to advance the mission, is wonderfully significant. Keep in mind also, that even pledges for small amounts given weekly add up to significant amounts over 3 years.
Q: If/when we go to one service, what will that mean for Sunday school classes? Will they still be before the main worship service?
A: We hope and plan to always have Sunday School (D2) classes at Celebration. Regardless of service times, these classes will find a home in our new facility somehow!
Q: How much growth in attendance is organic and how much is transfer growth from other churches?
A: We have seen a lot of both actually. While there is certainly some transfer growth happening, a good portion of our growth has been new believers, along with people moving to Montrose for the first time. For those searching for a new church home, regardless of the reason, Celebration Church continues to be one of the most compelling options.
Q: Can we push the small group Sunday service idea to free up space?
A: This is good in theory, but some challenges arise. For example, many of the people who serve on Sunday mornings are the ones we would be asking to stay home. Additionally, the number of groups we would need to stay home would increase to unrealistic levels over time. So while we don't see this as a permanent solution, this option is still being considered as a future band-aid, until we find our new home.
Q: Why not split into multiple churches or use satellite campuses?
A: We have considered satellite churches in the past and will likely do so in the future also, but the problem that we run into in Montrose is the lack of commercial real estate, especially spaces that can accommodate a church. The other problem we encounter is real estate costs. Financially, managing two or three facilities is often much more expensive (and much more complicated) than one larger centralized location.
Q: Are we still going to do church plants?
A: Absolutely. Church leadership has been exploring real estate in other Western Slope communities, and through the Pastoral Institute of the Western Slope, Celebration Church is actively involved in revitalizing and assisting four different area churches with pulpit supply and interim pastors. One church just celebrated their first baptism in 20 years!
We are however trying to centralize our resources on this next facility in the coming years.
Q: How should we view all of the growth at Celebration?
A: It is God who sovereignly builds and determines the size of Celebration. Lostness in our area is estimated to be 90%, and our personal comfort can’t determine our neighbors’ eternal destiny. We all have certain things we prefer within the church, but we must be careful to not allow our preferences for the church to supersede God’s desires for the church. Jesus Christ died for the sins of the whole world, and if our sacrifices in personal preferences allow more to hear about Jesus, and grow in their faith, it is worth it.
Q: People are going to ask what buildings you are looking at in town. Can you share this?
A: We have looked at several options, including the J.C. Penny Building, The Movie Theater on Main street, the Russell Stover Factory, and others. Each one had their advantages and disadvantages. But even if they would have worked, we did not have the resources to move on them when they were available. The Far More Abundantly campaign helps to fix that!
Q: Does the $6-6.5 million include the renovation?
A: Yes, But this is a detailed estimation of buying and renovating a potential space of around 40,000 sq ft. Future potential buildings that would come available may vary from this estimate either up or down.
Q: Can the $9.6 building be built in phases and how much are each?
A: We do have phases built into the $9.6 million architectural designs. But, the $9.6 million would be to build the first phase of 24,000 sq ft. Beyond that, we do have a second phase that would increase the building to 53,000 sq ft if we were to ever need it. Cost for that is as of yet undetermined.
We do believe that reducing the floorplan for our next facility below 24,000 sq ft would not be worth the cost, especially considering our current facility is already 14,000 sq ft. The cost of this building is why we are considering other, cheaper options as well.
Q: Can we see the floor plans?
A: Yes, we have multiple floor plans, but please keep in mind that none of the plans we have are guaranteed to be built. Within the planning, building and design phases, a lot of changes happen. If you want to see the plans, come chat with us. And as we continue to move forward, we will keep you updated as we narrow down to the exact design we want.
Q: Can we make sure to have bigger doors in the building? People often stand in front of the doors. Ha-ha.
A: Thanks for the input! We will do our best to have a few large entryway doors in the next facility.
Q: As we move forward to build a mission rather than a church, will we work on also being a church that goes out on mission together or just stay in our new church building?
A: That is a great heart! We as elders share your desire for mission work. Our church body currently leads and serves in prison ministries, homeless ministries, anti-abortion ministries, evangelism ministries, disaster relief ministries, Christmas shoebox ministries, international missions, and church planting. If you would like to get more involved with any of these, come let us know!
Q: Will pledges be deducted monthly for the 3 year period?
A: No, Pledges are not automatically deducted unless you decide to set up recurring giving online. We do believe that online giving is the most effective way to ensure that your pledge is met. Otherwise, you will be responsible for writing a check each week/month to meet your pledge.
Q: Is online giving - electronic funds a necessity for this campaign?
A: No, you can give with a check, or with cash as well. Just make sure to mark on the envelope your name, and designate it to the “Far More Abundantly Campaign”.
We have however found that giving via check or cash, is far more inconsistent than automatic online giving. Most of us who give in person, end up unintentionally missing between 1-3 monthly tithes per year.
Q: Are state or federal grants available?
A: We have been looking into grants, and while we are not aware of any state/federal grants, there may be Christian organizations out there who can help us. If you are aware of any of these, please don't hesitate to contact us with the details.
Q: Have we thought of everything we could do to maximize our current facility? (Parking, Classrooms, Sanctuary, etc.…)
A: We believe the answer to this is yes. We could perhaps go outside of our walls to add classrooms, sanctuary space, bathrooms, offices, kids space, etc.… but we would be cannibalizing our parking lot. The simple reality is that we only have 3 acres, and pouring significantly more money into this facility will not yield us the return on our investment we might be hoping for.
Q: Can our nine acres be sold if we do not build a church on it?
A: The person who donated us the land has requested that we return it to him if we no longer intend to build a church on that property. We would honor his request.
Q: Would 100% of the money from the sale of the current building go for a balloon payment on a new note?
A: Whatever we sell this property for, would likely go toward the principle on the new property loan.
Q: Will the new church be built with the ability to have a school program?
Yes, we have considered this, and are open to it.
Q: How are we going to accommodate our growth for the next 3 years?
A: We have some ideas in mind that may help us make it work, including overflow rooms, and potential temporary locations, but we should continue to come to church expecting some tight Sundays!