The Vision Statement of First Presbyterian Church, PCA, Enterprise, AL
“To glorify God today by bringing people to Christ and his church, and by building them into effective disciples who will serve…”
The Vision Statement of the Presbyterian Church in America:
“The Presbyterian Church in America exists to glorify God by extending the kingdom of Jesus Christ over all individual lives through all areas of society and in all nations and cultures. To accomplish this end the PCA aims to fill the world with churches that are continually growing in vital worship, in theological depth, in true fellowship, in assertive evangelism and in deeds of compassion”.
… together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Ro. 15:6
INTRODUCTION
Seeking to glorify God in our worship and to grow in vital and faithful service to Christ, our church is undergoing an extensive renovation and sanctuary expansion. The Session and the congregation is committing to a long term ministry of a Reformed expression of Gospel centered worship and service in the heart of this city. As we move forward in the 21st century to what God is calling us, we remain respectful of our past, but passionate about the truth. This has been prepared to help answer some questions you have about this project.
BACKGROUND
Why is First Presbyterian expanding our sanctuary now?
For years, we prayed and considered moving from the present location. Over two years ago the Session came to the decision after much prayer that we were to renovate our existing building and add needed space, restrooms and an inviting entrance. Moving to another location was too costly and our mission in the heart of this city was important to us.
Why does the Church need these new facilities? Aren’t the current ones sufficient?
The present sanctuary was built with the needs of people in the 1940’s. There are not adequate restrooms, handicap access or place to welcome first time visitors. While we were not maxing out the sanctuary on a week to week basis, the current capacity limited future growth. Research and practical experience shows that worship space does impact church attendance. But, these were not our primary focus for renovation. The present building was in need of capital improvements and upkeep. This became painfully apparent once construction began. While it raised the price tag, it also showed us that these repairs and expansion were not optional, but critical to maintain the present building. Left unattended this issue would affect the structural integrity of the building. We also need to build for the needs of the coming generations, to have adequate worship space, and to convey a sense of beauty and simplicity in our worship of God (Ps. 96:9).
Can Anyone See the Plans?
The floor plan of the new sanctuary has been posted in the fellowship hall. You are encouraged to look at it and see how the new addition will provide needed bathrooms, a cry room and a welcome space. The sanctuary is being expanded and redesigned according to a plan consistent with the Reformed emphasis on the preaching of the Word and the sacraments (1 Cor. 1:21; Acts 10:42). Elder Gerry Whitaker is the project manager, who has the detailed plans and can explain anything you might want to know or answer any questions.
What Will Be the Features?
1. The sanctuary will be expanded to provide seating for an additional 75 people. Having pews in the cross- sections will bring people closer to the pulpit and reflect a clear Reformed sanctuary (1 Cor. 1:21).
2. New clear colonial style windows with plantation style shutters.
3. The pews will be restored and refinished to match all the wood furniture.
4. A new addition will have a beautiful entrance, new restrooms and a cry room for nursing mothers.
5. There will be access to and seating in the church for those either semi- ambulant or in wheelchairs.
6. New central air/heating will replace the old system that was never evenly distributed.
7. Improve the lighting fixtures with a new designed ceiling.
8. Provide two rooms behind the sanctuary for a parlor and optional office space.
9. A new audio system with a video projector and screen for teaching purposes or mission presentations only.
Who is the Builder?
Kinn Pitman of Enco Construction is our builder. He is a local builder, with a strong record of quality work and is a believer. Kinn began meeting with us almost 2 years ago, praying with us and working countless hours before any contract was signed.
How long will the construction take?
We have been told it will take from four to five months to complete the project. This will mean we may be able to be in our new sanctuary in July or August.
Where will the services be held during the construction?
Services will be in the Fellowship Hall and we are not holding midweek dinners on Wed. night, to keep the setup at a minimum.
How will this affect other church activities?
The workers will clean up the area for the weekends and we will continue to have some Bible Studies and Sunday School.
Where will the stained glass windows go?
Those who would like to purchase any of the old stain glass windows, either by pane or window can do so. Please see Gerry Whitaker for information.
What will happen to the pews, the pulpit and the communion table?
The pews have been sent to Northern Alabama to a pew construction business for complete repair and refinishing. The pulpit and the communion table will also be refurnished, so that all the furniture will match.
What has happened to the piano and the organ?
Our piano tuner based in Panama City is storing our piano and will return it and tune it when the sanctuary is completed. Another company in Panama City, where we bought our organ is storing the organ and will reinstall it and revoice it when the work is done. The new design of the sanctuary will mean that the pianist and the organist will be partly hidden from the congregation to minimize the focus on music and to add support to the purpose of worship and our focus on God. The organ will also be newly fitted with speakers in the walls for better sound and beauty.
Will the new design have a place for a choir?
Our hope is that soon we will have a choir, and part of the design is that the new side sections are part of the congregation. New pews will be installed in the side sections that will be used for both worshippers and those who help with our singing. In the Reformed tradition, the choir is part of the congregation and not entertainers (Col. 3:16).
Will the Church launch a Capital Campaign to help fund this construction?
No. By God’s grace and upon complete dependence upon our Lord’s provision we are trusting that our church will meet this need. We will provide information in a timely manner about the financial picture of this project.
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