“ For a long time , I think we had the reputation of being the types to dress in suits for worship services ,” Meador says . “ Trinity High School , which is right next to our church , is the most diverse high school in America . All that says you can ’ t be a 1975 church anymore .” This prompted church leaders to ask themselves what they really wanted Cross City to be . In narrowing the vision down to those three guiding words ( faith , family and future ), it encompassed “ everything ,” Meador says — “ changing the way we dress , the way we decorate , and just becoming more down-to-earth and more real .” Last but not least , timing could have presented a major potential hurdle . But it didn ’ t . “ We launched our fundraising March 1 , 2020 — one week before the pandemic ,” Meador recalls . At that point , the church was already in the process of demolishing the two 1950s-era A-frames ( the oldest buildings on the campus ) to make room for a facility designed primarily for kids and students . After the pandemic hit , supply chain problems abounded around the U . S . Building projects all over the country were halted or delayed . But the Cross City project continued , in part because the congregation believed so strongly that a central , family-friendly area in the church was the right solution . A vital step . The church absolutely needed somewhere that , when people walk in , they know where to go for small groups . Where parents immediately know where to take their kids . “ It ’ s called the Generations Project because it ’ ll benefit all of us ,” he says . “ But it ’ s really built for the next generation .”
A better approach to communal space Of course , acknowledging the need for a vast , family-friendly space is one thing ; execution of that space is another . Dallas-based HH Architects was enlisted to solidify the vision . Translated , this vision means the new Commons connects all buildings . When someone enters this area , it ’ s clear where every age group should go , whether it ’ s preschool , kids or students . “ Sure enough , we can get people all situated in less than nine minutes now ,” Meador says . “ We ’ ve actually stop-watched it . That ’ s a great improvement .”
It ’ s also a great gathering space with comfortable furniture where people can sit and have coffee , hang out , and welcome the community to come inside . For even more fellowship opportunities , a coffee shop with an outdoor patio — adjacent to the Commons — was recently completed .
Sensitive to seniors ’ needs With an eye toward better accessibility , the steep stairs near the East entrance have been replaced , two new elevators were added , and the East elevator was refurbished . Senior adults have a covered entrance , and accessibility has been improved throughout the facility .
Safe spaces for kids Kids ’ facilities are designed for the future , ensuring children can learn , grow and invite others , all while they ( and their parents ) can feel safe and secure there .
18 CHURCH EXECUTIVE | MAR / APR 2022