“It was in my heart to build a house for the name of the Lord my God.” – 1 Chronicles 22:7b
It’s exciting to watch many growing churches across Indiana that are beginning construction on buildings. Need fresh ideas for those eventful construction days?
Diana DavisCross on top: Builders often erect a tree on the roof during construction. Why not top your construction project with a large cross made of two-by-fours instead?
Coming soon: Invest in a professional sign to inform curious passersby about the project. A hand-delivered memo to residential and commercial neighbors can let them know what’s happening and invite them to worship.
Plumbers lunch bell: Provide a hot lunch or box lunch for every different work crew (i.e. painters, electricians, landscapers). Include a note of thanks, a witness tract, and an invitation to worship. Challenge church members to personally invite workers.
Rafter writing: When framing is complete, invite church members for a special ceremony. Encircle the building for prayer, then distribute permanent marking pens. Play Christian music while everyone writes his or her name with a prayer or scripture on studs or rafters.
Steeple setting ceremony: If your building plans include a steeple or exterior cross, plan an informal celebration for members at the time of its installation.
Weekly photo update: Designate a volunteer photographer to capture building progress and action photos of each volunteer. Submit unique photos to local newspapers. Show weekly photos in pre-worship audiovisuals, Web site or newsletter, and create a photo journal for the building dedication.
Grab a hammer: Involve different groups in the church when possible. Examples: single adults paint, fathers and sons install doors, sweeping senior saints (“Triple S Club”) sweep the site each Friday, kids collect pennies for a piece of Christian art, teens plant trees, etc.
I sat by a little boy in the new church foyer after a church service recently. “See that door?” he pointed. “Me and my dad put up that door.” What a joy to work together to God’s glory! Grab a hammer.