Architects and a pastor discuss the nuances of making an intangible dream come true when it comes to church facilities

Church leaders typically refer to their building projects in terms of " vision ." Why is it so important for an architect to understand this language ?

Bruce Woody : It ’ s important that the architect understand the vision of the church leadership . In that way , when the building is complete , it can fully reflect the vision in every aspect , from function to aesthetics .

Melanie Hanna , RID NCIDQ : Yes ; regardless of the project type , casting a clear vision is key to strategic planning for the future . Building projects are often referred to as “ vision ” because they are a tangible step towards where God is leading the church .

Mark Ashcraft : How often to you begin a road trip by just getting in the car and driving ? You think about where you want to go , what you need to accomplish , and plan the best route to get you there . Vision creates opportunity to gather around an idea and move in the same direction . It creates clarity with easy-to-understand goal and / or objectives . With faith-based projects , the funding usually comes from sacrificial giving . Most people want to know the “ why ” as well as “ what ” when they are entrusting their money to a building project . As an architect , it is easy to get trapped in the “ what ” — spaces needed , their layout , what

they will look like — but we must always look to the vision messaging when developing a project to keep the focus on “ why ” the project exists . What ’ s more effective : selling classroom space or casting a vision for reaching the next generations for Christ with said classroom space ? The Gospel message is one of hope . If we only think of the “ what ,” we can miss the larger purpose of the project .

What are some reliable indicators it ' s time for a church to consider a building project ?

Ashcraft : Are your facilities relevant ? If you look around your campus with a critical eye and don ’ t seem relevant to current expectations — what people see every day everywhere else — you have a problem . No matter how great your messaging , people are visual creatures , and it will be another challenge to overcome . If your ministry vision is being dictated by your space — again , you have a problem . Ministry should always drive the design of your space . Growth . If you have increased the number of services , added additional education hours , and so on .

Woody : When you begin to sense the building has become a hindrance to growth , it ’ s necessary to consider how your facilities must be adapted , expanded or changed to correct or address this issue . This can occur

26 CHURCH EXECUTIVE | JULY / AUGUST 2021