Page 18 - Spring 2017 Contact Issue 41
P. 18
Following the recent completion
of their building project, which
included a new open ‘social space’
linking their sanctuary and new
halls, leaders in West Church have
been encouraged that a great
number of their members,
including many of those who
initially doubted the need for such
a facility, are delighted with it and
BUILDING agree that it provides exactly the
type of welcoming environment
to encourage visitors and new
PROJECT members to make friends and
feel part of their fellowship. We
know that their experience has
Last September we celebrated been replicated in many other
and gave thanks for 40 years in congregations who have also
our present suite of buildings. We moved forward in faith to develop
were reminded of the remarkable their life and witness in modern
foresight of those who looked to facilities which are accessible and
the future with strong faith and attractive to newcomers.
led the design and construction
of the sanctuary and supporting Of course, the planned
rooms which were ahead of their development of our vestibule
time and have stood the test of area and minor hall is not the only
time so well. We were reminded element of the project. Much of
that we too, in our generation, the cost is necessary to address
have the privilege and current requirements and
responsibility to look to the expectations of our members
future with strong faith. If we and the relevant authorities
are to remain effective in reaching regarding child protection, etc.
men and women of all ages for and to provide enough small and
Jesus and His kingdom, we must medium sized rooms for the range
prepare to meet the challenges of regular weekly activities for all
that come with living in a culture ages. These rooms are already
where involvement in church is needed for our own BB, GB and
not the norm for the majority. other youth activities, as well as
As part of our response to this the programme of weekly English
challenge we have embarked on language classes. Over and
a significant building project – above these existing needs,
Changing Lives Together. opportunities are also arising
for other ministries which
would require additional
accommodation, eg for
counselling, debt advice, bible
study and nurture groups.
