F i r s t
B a p t i s t
S u f f o l k
y r o l G s i H r o F e c a r sG i H y B
By His Grace For His Glory The purpose of our lives is reflected in our desire to display God’s glory. Paul stated that God’s grace is something we should desire to extend to others. As people are reached and lives are transformed there is a sense of thanksgiving that motivates us to give of ourselves. This motivation to reflect God’s glory must be our driving passion.
1
“… so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.” - 2 Corinthians 4:15
Our mission is to makeDisciples Our motivation in making disciples flows out of the desire we have to fulfill our God given purpose: to display God’s Glory. This purpose is reflected in our lives when…
1. We live transformed lives that model Christlikeness. 2. We reach others with the gospel of Christ. 3. We seek to live out God’s mission on earth. The Great Commission (Matthew 28: 19-20) must be primary as we seek to make the name of Christ famous in our community, nation, and world. We must be committed to reaching this generation for Christ and willing to continue the legacy of First Baptist Suffolk in reaching others.
2
EST. 1827
T
he church traces its roots back to the year 1827 when thirty-three men and women of Suffolk met in the Old Meeting House on Cedar Hill and
began the new Baptist Church of Suffolk. Over the course of nearly two centuries, First Baptist Church has reached thousands of people for Christ and sent hundreds of its own members into full-time service of the Lord. The church was and continues to be an important influence upon the lives of people of Suffolk, old Nansemond County, and indeed, the world.
3
1827
Church was founded with the purpose of members giving themselves, “First to the Lord and then to one another.”
1836
Wood frame sanctuary was constructed.
1890
First brick sanctuary was completed.
History
A of building to reflect God’s Glory 1962 1989
1912
McFarland education building added and the sanctuary renovated.
1937
Goodwin education building was constructed.
1957
The church tore down the 1890 sanctuary and built our current worship center.
Traylor Building was added to the church complex.
Family Life Center was constructed.
2013
A stewardship initiative will begin to raise the needed funds to begin work toward the renovation of the FBC complex and the addition of a welcome center.
4
From our Pastor B
y His Grace and
upon the completion of our Family Life
For
Center, in 1989.
His
Glory
Each of those initiatives
is a perfect way to
required our people to sacrifice and step out
describe the journey
in faith. They were willing to do it, for they
of First Baptist Church
had experienced the grace of God and were
of
willing to joyfully give for His glory.
Suffolk,
Virginia
through the years. In 1827, thirty-three souls
Now it is time to do so again. In order for
gathered in a humble
our church to reach its potential for Christ
meeting
to
it is imperative that we renovate and add
organize our church.
certain elements to our facility. Our planned
For 186 years, we have experienced the grace
renovations and additions will greatly help us
of God as a faith family, and we have sought
reach people for Christ and disciple them in
to live for His glory.
their Christian walk. They will be a catalyst
house
for growth. First Baptist has been a beacon for the gospel of Jesus Christ through the years.
It has
Our new entrance, welcome center, and
always held faithfully to the total truthfulness
gathering area will meet all kinds of needs.
of Scripture. It has always been evangelistic.
Imagine guests walking into a welcome
It has been generous in its support of
center, where they are oriented to our
international missions. It has planted several other churches.
It
has nurtured, trained, and sent out scores of
pastors
missionaries.
and And,
when it needed to expand
its
reach
Our planned renovations and additions will greatly help us reach people for Christ and disciple them in their Christian walk.
church
in
an
atmosphere of
love
warmth, the
and with
smell
of
freshly brewed coffee
in
the
air.
Imagine
the
fellowship
through various building projects, the people
that will take place in that area not only on
have always risen to the occasion.
Sundays and Wednesdays, but throughout the week as people gather for Bible studies
Many of our people have seen this happen in
and discipleship.
their lifetimes. Some of you can remember
5
the first service in our current worship
Imagine how young families will feel when
center, held in 1957. Some can remember the
they walk into a fun, bright, and inviting
dedication of the Traylor Building in 1963.
indoor courtyard, where the eyes of children
Many can remember the air of celebration
will light up when they see the play area, and
parents will feel reassured by a modern,
credited to our account. We have been
state of the art check-in area. Moments
adopted as beloved sons and daughters
after entering our church, young families
of the King of kings! And it is all by grace.
will see our love for children and our
Next, think and pray about what you will
attention to security.
give for the glory of our Savior. We want Him to be more loved and more famous
Imagine how children and youth will
in our city. We want to do even more for
feel about renovated and modernized
people beyond our city through missions
classrooms and worship spaces – spaces
as our church grows and strengthens
that will be so up to date and fun that
here. This building project is a crucial
they will want to “hang out” there,
part of those things. What would be an
because it is such a great place to be.
appropriate gift?
Imagine being able to worship in a
Should it be an amount that you will
sanctuary that recaptures its original
not even miss? Or should we take the
beauty and majesty with the makeover
attitude of David, “I will not sacrifice to
of new paint, carpet, and pew cushions,
Lord my God…offerings that cost me
with enhanced lighting and sound, and an
nothing” (2 Samuel 24:24).
expanded platform area that will provide space for instruments and opportunities
I believe an appropriate gift in light of
for gospel-centered drama and music.
His amazing grace to us would be a true sacrifice…for His glory.
Imagine the feeling as we see room after room and hallway after hallway getting a “facelift.”
And, yes, let’s not forget
modernized and expanded bathrooms! All of these things and more can be done and will be done, by His grace and for His glory. Our part is to pray and give, in that order. First, pray. Meditate on God’s love and mercy toward you, on His faithfulness to you. Think about the journey of grace He has had you on since the day He saved you.
Think about how faithful He has
been to you…time after time after time. Think about the love that gave His only begotten Son. Praise God for what he has done for us through the gospel. Our sins are forgiven. We are accepted by God as not guilty but righteous because the perfect record of Jesus has been
6
n o i s i V Our
t who ers of Chris w o ll fo d te o fully dev is to make n io s is m r Ou ’s glory. tion reflect God transforma fe li f o t n e nvironm ltivate an e u c to is n ed to: Our visio re challeng a le p o e p where
TRUTinH R ing. E V O C S g and teach I h D c a re p pository through ex IVES L D E R E T N PEL-CE S O G L E D MO g out truth. by livin WORLD D N A Y T I MMUN O C T C A P M I ing others. by serv
THERnS . discipleship TRAIyNanO e o n o e n do by famil
n, E HOPoE , redemptio ll fa , n o ti a SHAR f cre g the story
7
by tellin mation. and consum
Because of the age of our building, we are in need of renovating our facilities, most critically our worship and education spaces. We also have a need to add fellowship and welcome spaces. Ministry will be enhanced by the addition of handicap accessible entrances and handicap accessible bathrooms. As we continue to grow, these facilities will enhance our ability to reach people for Christ and connect them to discipleship. Over the past year, we have sought wisdom from God and the counsel of others in how to understand and address these challenges including…
• an in-depth space and growth study with a highly experienced church stewardship expert • advice and counsel from Ad hoc Renovation committee • feedback from ministry staff and volunteer ministry leaders 8
g n i n n a l P
The process through which needs and priorities were established: • Began with a mission statement to “develop and implement a strategic plan for restoring and improving the church facility for effectively reaching people for Christ and discipling them in their Christian walk.” • Invested time evaluating the present church facility and looking for areas of improvement. • Held conversations with staff and individual church members to identify needs. • Studied best practices and consulted with a church stewardship consultant. • Finalized a list of renovations and brought the list of church needs for approval. • Established a relationship with a design build company and received a referral for architect & engineers. • Received church approval to hire Generis for stewardship campaign assistance. • Presented a schematic plan with anticipated costs. Plan was approved by the church.
9
Understanding the Need Fellowship and Welcome Spaces The need to greet guests when they arrive at FBC Suffolk is key to our first impressions with guests. New fellowship and welcome spaces will allow us to make a great first impression with those who visit with us weekly. The additional gathering area will allow quality fellowship with attenders and members between each service. This space will also allow for groups to gather during the week for Bible studies and social gatherings.
Worship Enhancements We gather weekly for numerous services in the church sanctuary. The greatest number of first time guests that visit our facility do so in our Sunday am services. Upgrades to the sanctuary will allow a beautiful worship space to be enhanced and serve as a place where God is glorified in music, preaching, and giving.
Preschool Security and Education Space Our desire to disciple the next generation begins in our preschool and nursery areas. We need a greater level of security and a place to teach the depth of God’s love to each of our little ones. Enhancements to these areas will allow parents to feel comfortable as they bring their families to our campus.
Children’s Education Space Children’s ministry is a driving force of our church. Disciples are made through the teaching of the great stories of the Bible and Scripture memorization is emphasized. Renovating the third floor of the Traylor building will provide attractive classrooms to teach children the hope of the gospel.
Student Center Remodel The worship of Christ and the teaching of God’s Word will be vital in our future ability to reach the youth of our community. Places for teaching, worship, and fellowship will be included in our renovated student area.
10
By His
Grace For His
Glory Entrance, fellowship area, restrooms, handicap access, courtyard & nursery security
$1,115,000 Sanctuary
$320,000 Preschool Nursery
$215,250 Children’s 3rd Floor Renovation
$220,000
Student Ministry Area
$84,000 TOTAL NEEDED
$1,954,250 11
1st Floor Fellowship & Welcome Area
Floor Plans Preschool & Security
3rd Floor Children’s Area
2nd Floor Youth Area
12
Campaign
Goals
Entrance, fellowship area, restrooms, handicap access, courtyard & nursery security - $1,115,000 A 2,000 square foot welcome center and fellowship area will enhance our facility. A new vestibule will provide a new entrance into a courtyard area with a children’s space and security check-in system. Handicap accessible bathrooms and new handicap entrances will help with mobility into our facility. A second story loft in the addition will provide a place to purchase books and a second floor entrance from the McFarland Building.
Sanctuary - $320,000 A sanctuary renovation will provide an interior entrance into the lobby. Enhancements to the stage and choir areas will give a place for all instruments and equipment to be on one level. New paint, cloth pew coverings and floor surfaces will beautify the auditorium. Renovations will include upgrades to video, electrical and sound equipment.
13
Preschool Nursery - $215,250 A renovated preschool area will give a facelift to 6 preschool rooms and add a new entrance with more security. New offices for the Daycare and Christian school will provide a secure check-in for visitors. Remodeled bathrooms will give easy access for preschoolers.
Children’s 3rd Floor Renovation - $220,000 The third floor children’s area renovation will include removing many of the smaller rooms and enlarging them to five large classrooms. New flooring, wall finishes, and updated classroom furnishings will provide effective education space for children’s ministry.
Student Ministry Area - $84,000 The 4,000 sq. ft. student center will be updated with spaces for worship, fellowship and dining. Seven classrooms will be remodeled to include quality educational upgrades. The worship area will be enlarged and will include the restoration of the high ceiling and the loft area. A space for tables and chairs will be remodeled with a kitchenette area for the preparation of snacks and meals. A fellowship and game area will be included in the loft.
What if we do not raise the full amount needed? We will call on our Finance committee to recommend to our church a responsible course of action for the use of the funds available to move forward in stages. We will ask our church to vote to approve the final building/financial plan before construction.
A Note About Construction Estimates The “cost estimates” above are based on our design build team’s best estimates in construction costs. Cost estimates are often inexact because they are fixed in time and thus cannot account for the ever changing market pressures. As cost estimates fluctuate, our Ad hoc Committee will continue to adjust the scope of this project to keep us in a financially healthy place.
14
FAQ
How do I participate in By His Grace, For His Glory?
First and foremost, pray. Ask God for direction about what He would have you do. Allow God to speak to you through the Sunday morning messages and the prayer guide. Be open to how He directs your faith, and respond to His leadership about making a three-year commitment to give.
How soon would construction begin?
While we cannot give an exact time frame, construction could begin as early as next spring. The timing depends on many factors including the amount committed, a subsequent vote by our faith family to approve construction, the design process, and other construction factors.
When would we move into the new building?
We would expect to be able to move into the renovated areas approximately 9-12 months after construction begins. This timeline is dependent primarily on construction processes that are beyond our direct control.
How does this affect my regular giving?
Any commitment to By His Grace, By His Glory should be in addition to your regular giving to the ongoing ministry of First Suffolk. Our hope is that every person, whether they have never given to the church before or are committed tithers, can find a way to participate by moving their giving at least one step forward to greater generosity.
What should I give?
No other person can tell you what to give. Start by acknowledging your current level of giving faithfulness to God and asking Him to show you ways to go beyond that. Look for creative ways to increase your ability to give or sacrifices that you can make in order to invest in the Kingdom of God. Every person has a different capacity to give, and each of our gifts should be generous, sacrificial, and faith-inspired in comparison to our capacity.
What kind of commitment am I being asked to make?
We are asking you to make a three-year commitment to give at a level greater than what you already give. No one person or small group of people can accomplish these faith goals by themselves, but there is great power if every person makes a commitment to give generously.
Can I change my commitment later?
These commitments are not legally binding, but they should be real commitments. Pray and seek direction to make a real faith-led commitment. If life circumstances change, you can increase or decrease your commitment to match your circumstances. Simply seek to be faithful to God’s leadership and provision in your life.
How can I give?
While most gifts will be weekly or monthly gift commitments, you can also give single gifts of stock, cash, or property. This type of gift isn’t reserved for those with large assets. Some families choose to have a garage sale, skip a vacation, or make some other sacrifice in order to give a greater gift.
How does this project affect our church’s overall financial health?
First Suffolk is in a healthy financial situation, and this project will actually make It significantly better by allowing us to continue to grow as a faith family. Decisions about what to build will be made by the Ad hoc Renovation committee and the finance committee based on what has been committed. We will not build more than we can afford.
15
Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or
imagine
Ephesians 3:20
16
What should
you
do?
Generosity Ladder Abundant Tithing
By His Grace, For His Glory is about when every one of us takes a sacrificial, generous step of faith. Where are you on the generosity ladder? Can you commit to move up one rung on that ladder?
Pray
By His Grace, For His Glory is a discipleship process more than a
Intentional
fundraising campaign. It is about shaping our hearts to be the generous, faith-filled people God desires us to be. Go through the daily prayer guide. Allow God to speak to your heart and challenge you. Ask Him what He is calling you to do in this area of your life during this season. Seek His direction and ask Him for the faith to follow that direction.
Occasional
Commit
With God’s leadership, make a commitment. Don’t just commit to an amount, but to a change. Look at the generosity ladder. Can you step one rung up on the ladder? What does that mean for your life? What sacrifices does that require? How does God have to provide in your life for that to be real? Make a commitment to take that step in faith.
e m i T t s Fir
Give
Giving is what takes our commitment and our faith and makes it real. Generosity is one of the fundamental keys to a Christ-centered life. It requires faith, sacrifice and vision. View each gift you have pledged as a step on the faith journey. Begin by making the first step. Maybe God is leading you to make that first step a leap by giving something abundant. Let God direct that step and give the way He leads you.
17
Co mm itm en t Ca rd
or imag ine, more than all we ask to do imme asura bly chur ch to him be glor y in the Now to him who is able is at work with in us, that r Amen . powe ever! his and to ever for accor ding ghou t all gene ratio ns and in Chri st Jesus throu 3:20 Ephes ians
folk First Baptist Suf 237 N. Main Street •
Suffolk, VA 23434.
• (757) 539-4152
SAMPLE COMMITMENT CARD
Sunday, October 20th On Sunday, October 20, we will have a special worship celebration to culminate By His Grace, For His Glory. We are asking every person at First Suffolk to go through this process and allow God to shape their commitment and their gifts. On October 20 we will make these commitments together to the Lord using a card like the one you see here on this page. This commitment has three parts.
A commitment to step forward in faith
Resolve to move up on the generosity ladder. Where is your current level of generosity and giving back to God? How is God leading you to move forward with that commitment?
A three-year giving commitment
You will receive a worksheet with your commitment card. Use the worksheet to figure out how advancing your giving to the next level for three years can have a multiplied effect. You may be amazed at what you can do by simply giving to God in a greater way over time. Will you commit to this level of generosity for three years? Ask God to help you make a commitment that stretches your faith.
A one-time gift
Whether you are a tithing giver wanting to give a generous and sacrificial gift or a first time giver who wants to get started giving back to God, you can make a one-time gift outside of your regular giving. This could be a gift of some stock or property, the proceeds of a garage sale, or the fruit of some single sacrifice in your life. Imagine the power of giving if over 250 families made some sort of sacrificial gift.
A NOTE ABOUT THESE COMMITMENTS The By His Grace, For His Glory pledges are faith commitments we make together as a church toward the purpose of God. They are not legally binding and can be changed or canceled if needed based on your life circumstances. Your individual commitment is confidential and will not be published or shared in any way.
18
“… so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.” - 2 Corinthians 4:15
30
w w w . f b c s u f f o l k . o r g