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Our building fund of $400,000 exists because of her gift.
Although she and her husband did not attend First Church,
and they were of modest means, she had strong and deep
memories of her Methodist roots in Arkansas and made this
substantial gift in faith. Her faith in God looked to the
future for FUMC, even though she would not see that vision
come to completion in her lifetime. Now, together, we have
an opportunity to continue her legacy and build for the
future of First Church.
Why a new Narthex?
After several years of study and surveys of the
congregation’s needs, along with visioning for future
growth, The Campus Development Task Force decided that this
expanded and enhanced Narthex, with front entrance and drop
off driveway, restrooms and “cry room,” best met the needs
and vision of the congregation. Space for people to
connect with one another is essential for a GROWING church.
What about expanding the present Sanctuary building?
That was considered but because of the structural changes
involved and new earthquake building codes, that option
would have cost several million dollars and therefore was
cost-prohibitive.
Why not build a gymnasium?
That was also considered, but again, because of building and
space requirements it was cost-prohibitive. This is
something that can still be considered for the future.
Isn’t this a bad time to build, with such a poor
economy?
Although some people may be constrained in their giving due
to economic hardship, many are not. In fact, this is a
great time to build because local contractors are eager for
work and bids on construction continue to be lower than in
previous times. It will cost us less to build now than it
would have three years ago or perhaps three years from now.
Financing the Project
Existing Building Fund
$400,000
(bequest of Lois Prewitt LaFevers)
Conference Board of $200,000
Missions
Loan
Fund
Kern Mission & Church $150,000
Extension Society Matching Grant
*First Church
$225,000 Capital Campaign
TOTAL
$975,000
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