June 28, 2021

A message from Pastor Mike Carlson:

Thanks to your generous and faithful support through the Hope Lives capital campaign, the new Fellowship Hall and Gathering Space are now a fixture at St. Andrew’s. They are being used more and more each week as we welcome back members of our congregation and the community. We’re excited for each of you to experience what your generous support has made possible in these state-of-the-art facilities. God is already moving in these new spaces, and I know God will continue to.

Now we’re embarking on the next phase of this effort, with the Great Hall renovation and expansion that your support is also making possible.  Some efforts are already underway, while others will be kicking off in the coming weeks.

• Improved radical hospitality: New signage outside the building will better direct guests and visitors. When they enter the building, they’ll experience a more welcoming, inviting space to engage with us and each other.
• More community support: Our Community Resource Center will add laundry and shower facilities for guests in need of those services. We’ll expand our emergency food support to include fresh produce and culturally appropriate options, have more room to support our guests with case management and job counseling. We’re also creating a Wellness Center to tend to CRC guests’ and the congregation’s needs across mind, body and spirit.
• Expanded capacity for children, youth and family: New dedicated and flexible spaces will accommodate DOCK, Skipping Stones, Vacation Bible School, confirmation groups, parent-child ministries, and parent education.
• Upgraded technology: Our remodeled media room and new Zoom room will help us better engage virtually.

While there are many exciting changes underway, there are some important things that aren’t changing. Contemporary worship services will still be held in the Great Hall; the Thursday night Community Meal will continue to take place in the Narthex; and we’ll continue to welcome members of our congregation and community with open arms, however and wherever they enter the building. Thanks again to those of you who have supported the Hope Lives capital campaign. With your help, we’re doing even more to Proclaim Jesus Christ, Live in Christ, and Serve through our physical spaces.