As you read this we will still be in the Christmas season though this coming Sunday. The birth of Christ/the incarnation is simply worth celebrating as long as we can.

There is even more to celebrate. As you know we have experienced, welcomed and enjoyed substantial growth over the last few years. We are so grateful to God’s anointing and trust He has in you, this congregation, to welcome so many new members, newcomers and babies. (Over 60 babies/toddlers between 0-2 years old!). When ASD moved to this location in 2019, plan A was to move into this building for all our needs. Also part of this plan was to build a bigger sanctuary when the time was right as we felt God's guidance.

The time is right.

After prayerful consideration and much discussion, we feel God is leading us to begin the design phase for a new sanctuary with offices and rooftop event space adjacent to our present building. Our present building will be able to add youth and children’s space. You might notice that the elevator located on the west wall as you enter was designed purposely to connect with another building when and if the time arose.

I share this with you now because this will be the topic of my message this Sunday. I will go into more detail about this process, the intermediate steps to handle growth (such as 4 services beginning in February) and how we plan to keep the architectural vibe we have in our present building. There is much also to talk about regarding the school being built next door which provides additional parking, developing news about downtown momentum, and our best thinking regarding surrounding property.

It is important that you are kept informed about these developments and how we are humbly and hopefully discerning God’s guidance. Obviously, in keeping with our mission statement “Live in God’s presence, Live out His love,” our way of worship, hospitality, and 3 streams focus is vital for our spiritual health and mission.

Finally, I will outline what is happening in our congregational life over the next several months such as “Teach us to pray”, marriage ministry, pastorates, a spiritual gifts conference with Sam Storms, men and women’s ministry, family ministries, outreach, and more.

Come and See.

+Philip