Debt Free!
This past Sunday was a very special one for our church family. First, let me set the stage for you. In the Spring of 2021, we formed a committee to investigate the possibility of building a new social hall and kitchen for our church. In November of 2022 that committee brought a proposal to our church to proceed with the construction of a 6000 square foot building that would provide us a place to eat, fellowship, worship, and learn. The church voted overwhelmingly to accept this motion.
On Sunday, January 8, 2023, we had a “Groundbreaking Ceremony” at the completion of morning worship. We simply threw some dirt around, took pictures, and began to dream about what might be. Later that week the work began.
On Sunday, January 7, 2024, exactly 52 weeks, 364 days later, we held a “Dedication Service” to celebrate the completion of the new building. We had actually eaten breakfast there the previous Sunday, but on that day we gathered in a circle around the new social hall, and we sang and prayed prayers of thanksgiving for what God had allowed to take place in our church.
Now, here is the part that I still have trouble believing. Keep this in mind. I’ve been a pastor for 42 years, five of them at Shellman Bluff. I’ve only been a part of one other building program, and that was in 1984 in south Louisiana when I was still a seminary student. I’ve helped three churches pay off debt. But this is only the second building program from scratch. Keep in mind the dates above.
This past Sunday, January 5, 2025, exactly 52 weeks, 364 days after the Dedication Service, we burned the mortgage note on the building. It’s completely paid off! Almost $1.6 million dollars in labor, materials, equipment and furnishings, and we don’t owe another penny.
What a testimony to the greatness of God, and the faithfulness of His people. I am overwhelmed by it all. I am privileged to serve this wonderful group of people that gathers at Shellman Bluff each week. And I am humbled by the fact that they allow me to be a part of their lives. I am truly blessed. I pray that you will see the greatness of God and the faithfulness of His people wherever you live and serve. That is truly a blessing.
