Where to Begin when Undergoing a Church Building Project

By JERRY FULTON
BMLA Director

When a congregation grows and/or decides to relocate and finds itself embarking on building new facilities, it is an exciting time. Steps to follow throughout the construction process are below:

STEP ONE: Begin with prayer. Start by praying for guidance and direction for the project, asking God to make His will known and to provide the guidance needed to undertake and complete the project.

STEP TWO: Communicate the vision. Clearly articulate the mission and purpose of the new building, including the needs it will address and the vision for future ministry.

STEP THREE: Establish a financial plan. A clear financial plan is vital. Determine the overall costs and create a realistic financial plan that accounts for construction, fees, furniture, fixtures and equipment. Decide if the church will raise the funds or explore various funding sources for the project. Keep in mind that the Baptist Missionary Loan Association exists to provide loans to churches that are building with competitive rates, minimal closing costs, no required down payment and a seamless process all the way to closing.

STEP FOUR: Form a building committee. A diverse group of interested and involved members to make decisions throughout the process is necessary. No pastor or one church staff member should be burdened with having to make such decisions alone. However, it is important that the building committee seek the leadership of the pastor as he is the overseer of the church. It is the pastor whom God has called to lead the church.

STEP FIVE: Call in the experts. Securing an experienced architect, contractor and/or builder with expertise in church design and construction will ensure desired needs are met.  

STEP SIX: Develop a plan. The pastor, church staff, building committee and experts should create a long-term plan that considers the church’s current needs and future growth without compromising future expansion. 

STEP SEVEN: Design the building. Collaborate with the secured experts to design a facility that supports the church’s worship, community outreach and ministry. 

STEP EIGHT: Start building. Have the appropriate person or persons oversee the construction process, ensuring it runs smoothly and stays on schedule. 

STEP NINE: Complete the project. Finish the building’s interior and exterior to the church’s liking.

STEP TEN: Celebrate. It is the Lord who will have guided the entire process, so celebrate the completion by praising and thanking Him, and measure the impact the new facility will make on the community.

The director and staff of the Baptist Missionary Loan Association stand ready to assist your church in building new facilities, remodeling existing facilities and/or refinancing current loans. Contact the Baptist Missionary Loan Association at 972-923-0758, or contact Director Jerry Fulton at [email protected].

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