Land Ho! It was thrilling to hear the announcement during the Kirkin’ service that an agreement has been reached to purchase the block just east of us. That’s where Louisiana Companies used to be. It’s the property bounded by North Blvd, Convention, 8th and 9th Streets. This opens up room for expansion and enhancements for our whole campus, including more parking.
How are we able to pay for this? The trustees of the church and the trustees of the FPC Foundation designed a visionary, innovative plan. Our church endowment consists of two sources: the McLaurin Trust and the Foundation. The trustees of both entities agreed to create a non-profit corporation which will own the property for the church. Portions from the assets of both portfolios will be reallocated from stocks and bonds to the real estate that is this block of land and buildings.
This purchase humbles, excites, staggers and energizes me. A hundred years ago, a congregation sacrificed to buy land and build the magnificent sanctuary in which we worship. Over the last four decades, faithful members have given funds to the church that created our endowment. Careful management, along with generous giving, have meant that both the Foundation and the McLaurin trust have undergirded mission and ministry through our church and grown our assets.
Now, these gifts from others will make possible what we can do with our church buildings and grounds for the generations to follow us.
Do you see the beauty of visionary generosity? The phrase that keeps coming to mind is “As it was done for us . . .” Faithful members who came before have given us a platform from which we can reach into the future. As we approach our 200th anniversary, we will be able to participate in renovating and renewing the church campus for our children and their children.
Can you imagine if we had to first raise nearly $6 million dollars for the land before we could even begin enhancements? Those who went before us, under the careful guidance of our present leaders, have already given us this stunning head start.
So many people have worked so hard for so long to make this possible. I’m so grateful to trustees, elders and staff, and above all to the God from whom all blessings flow.
As we approach our stewardship dedication Sunday November 16, I am deeply moved to keep in mind “As it was done for you . . .” as we fill out our estimate of giving card.
As always, I love being your pastor,
Gerrit
