The Vision
The Godstory
There’s always a back story to a movement of God. The launch of a new campus is no different.
For Suncrest it started about 2 years ago when Greg, myself and the elders begin having conversations about the approach of some churches called multi-site. The reason to even consider it was obvious: there were people who lived far enough from Suncrest’s building that they would never come. People who desperately needed Jesus.
Some of these people live near me. I live in Merrillville and I have neighbors who won’t drive 16 minutes to Suncrest’s campus because it is too far. That is just unacceptable to me. I could get mad at them and consider them too lazy or whatever but Jesus’ approach to ministry really isn’t build a build a building and expect everyone to come to him. His approach is to GO where ever His message needs to be heard.
Through many more discussions other campuses seemed to be something God was leading Suncrest towards.
Meanwhile…
A group of dedicated Christ followers in Hobart were meeting as a part of Community Christian Church. There numbers had dwindled and they wondered if this was really honoring God. As they looked for help, they thought of the CDEA (Chicago District Evangelism Association, a church planting organization). In their conversations they felt compelled that the CDEA was an organization with a vision for new life through new churches. After talking through various possibilities the best solution was to give their assets to the CDEA to plant a new church in the Hobart area. Life would come from death.
Through some quite peculiar (think God) circumstances Greg learned of this and conversations were started about the possibility of partnering with the CDEA on this project. Through lots of prayer and talk the deal was sealed and we will launch a brand new campus of Suncrest in the Hobart area that will reach hundreds if not thousands for Christ. All because of the vision of a handful of Christ followers.
FAQ
There are lots of questions surrounding the launch of a new campus. Here’s the most frequently asked ones:
1. What do we mean by “multi-site” church?
“Multi-site” is a word used to describe churches that meet in more than one location. They have worship services and programming in various places, but enjoy the strength of being a single church. The phrase “one church, multiple locations” is a phrase you will hear more and more around Suncrest.
2. Why are we doing this?
We have several reasons for this new direction, but none is bigger than this: It fulfills our mission and our elders have a clear sense that God has led us in this direction. Even since the decision was made, God has already been opening opportunities in this we could have never expected. Strategically, opening new campuses let’s our ministry serve areas that are just out of reach for us geographically right now.
Other reasons:
a. It gives us the most empty Seats at optimal times;
b. Less cost with greater impact;
c. We can grow larger and smaller;
d. The site will be brand new (which has a great feel) yet Suncrest is a trusted name;
e. New church vibe and big church punch;
f. Move there and stay here;
g. More need will open up which typically draws more support;
h. More outreach and more maturity.
3. Why multi-site and not a totally new church?
A multi-site approach is the best way to launch because we synergize the energy, passion, faith, and excitement of doing something new, while utilizing proven leadership and the resources of an established church. It takes advantage of multiple efficiencies (shared staff, shared office space, collaboration on programming, etc.) and we estimate that we will start a new site at half the cost of a totally new church.
I’m thankful for Christians who saw beyond themselves and saw the big picture. Sometimes people are hesitant to give up what is “theirs,” but the people from CCC obviously have the heart of God in mind, and know that the church is where God’s people are. I pray for God’s blessings on their faith walk and look forward to meeting them.
I’m glad Noelle let me know how to log on to Suncrest’s website. As a member of CCC, I’m thrilled at what’s happening. Praise God!!! N
Hi. Where might this location be? I live in Merrillville and my wife and I have considered going to a church if it is close by us, welcoming, and not boring.
We are still trying to find a facility to rent. Love to have you come check us out. You are also welcome to come to our 1st campus in Saint John to get a feel for what we are like.
We actually checked it out once. Without getting into much detail, we didn’t have a very positive experience. We liked the format and pastor and all that, but we didn’t feel welcome.
So sorry to here that because we strive to make everyone feel welcome. We do definitely miss that sometimes. I hope you will try us out again or at least give the new campus a try.
It would be pretty selfish and childish not to give you a second shot, I jack a lot of things up on my first try — we are human, after all. I’d love to chat with you some about God and life and all that, if you have the time. I believe my email address is supplied since I fill it out for this comment. If not, here it is in a format so spam-bots don’t get a hold of it (letters only plus @ sign, the rest is to throw off metacrawlers): p . r . a . y . e . r . a . m . e . d . i . c . @ . y . a . h . o . o .. c . o . m .
Sounds good. Love to chat as well.
It might be easier if I email you, I just thought about that. Saw your email on Suncrest site.