they realized that relocation would separate them from the very people to whom they ministered. While they needed more space, the location of that space was critical.

Introduction Fifteen Questions before You Begin

1 Confessions of a Surprised Architect

Many churches, like my grandmother’s, conclude that their building is keeping them from growing. Sometimes they are right. An inadequate or unattractive building can keep people away. But many times when a church says “Our building won’t let us grow,” they have misdiagnosed the problem. The real roadblocks to growth are being overlooked, and the

sanctuary is an Old Testament concept that was abolished in Christ.

False Expectation 2 Building Will Improve Members’ Giving to Ministry

False Expectation 1 Building Will Stimulate Growth

they were able to eventually pay cash for a major building program and then eliminate all the interest expense

Until a church fully utilizes its existing building, a need for more space does not exist.