A Vision for the Future of First Presbyterian Church
At First Presbyterian Church, we believe our campus is more than a collection of buildings—it is a place where worship, community, and mission flow outward into Baton Rouge and beyond. Our Master Campus Plan is a thoughtful, prayerful roadmap designed to align our physical spaces with the mission and strategic priorities God has given us. Adopted by the Session in early 2026, this plan reflects years of discernment, collaboration, and faithful stewardship.
“Abraham planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba
and called there on the name of the LORD,
the Everlasting God.”
The Story, the Plan, the Committee
The Story Behind the Plan
The Master Campus Plan began as an extension of the church’s 2024 Strategic Plan, with a clear goal: to ensure our campus supports and strengthens the ministries of First Presbyterian for decades to come. Over the course of 2025, we:
- Engaged architects and planners from Tipton Associates
- Conducted a comprehensive assessment of our buildings and grounds
- Hosted focus groups and listening sessions across ministries
- Gathered input from 72 participants and over 400 responses representing the life of the church
This process helped us identify both challenges and opportunities—from accessibility and wayfinding to opportunities for deeper connection and hospitality.
The result is a plan rooted in our mission and designed to help our campus better reflect who we are and who God is calling us to be.
What the Plan Seeks to Do
The Master Plan is not about building something new—it’s about using what we already have more faithfully and effectively.
Key priorities include:
- Creating welcoming, clearly defined entry points
- Improving accessibility and campus navigation
- Expanding spaces for connection, hospitality, and ministry
- Enhancing safety and security across campus
- Increasing parking and improving traffic flow
- Strengthening connections between buildings and ministries
At the heart of the plan is a vision of a more connected campus—one that helps people gather, grow, and go out into the world in Christ’s name.
Committee Members
This group, alongside church staff and ministry leaders, helped guide the process with prayer, wisdom, and dedication.
Scott Bardwell (Chairman)
Will Adams
Gary Black
Debbie Copeland
Brett Furr
Allison Keppinger
Pat Kerr
Heather Kirkpatrick
Laurie Lemoine
Sally McBride
Keely McMillin
Dan Zito
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a construction project?
Not immediately. The Master Plan is a long-term roadmap, implemented thoughtfully over time in phases.
What is the timeline?
Implementation is expected to unfold over several years, with time dedicated to planning, budgeting, and fundraising before construction begins.
Will we build new buildings?
No major new construction is required. The plan focuses on renovation, reorganization, and better use of existing space.
Why now?
As our ministries grow and evolve, our campus must support that mission. This plan ensures we are being faithful stewards of what God has entrusted to us.
How will this impact current ministries?
The plan is designed to enhance—not disrupt—ministry, improving how spaces are used and making it easier for people to connect and participate.
How can I be involved?
There will be opportunities to pray, give, serve, and provide input as the plan moves forward.
A Detailed Look
For a detailed look at the vision, process, and recommendations . . .
Share Your Feedback
This plan reflects the voice of our congregation—and that conversation continues.
We invite you to share your thoughts, questions, and ideas.
Get Involved
As we move forward together, we invite you to participate:
Pray. Give. Serve. Suggest.
This is a shared vision for our shared future—and we’re grateful to walk this journey together.
