3rd Century - FAQ

What is the 3rd Century Plan?

The 3rd Century Plan is the master plan for our church facilities and campus adopted by the church on January 2, 2005. Because the ministry of First Baptist Church began in the early 1800s, continued through the 1900s, and entered our new millennium growing faster than ever before, we are excited to be planning and building for our church's third century of ministry.

What were the goals of the planning process?

Our goals were to fully develop the church's 23 acres for ministry, more than half of which remain unused. Crowding in existing ministry space meant we began with current needs for expansion. The locations of existing buildings made convenience and efficiency major considerations. In addition, any new buildings had to blend with the classic architectural style of our church sanctuary and chapel, yet be contemporary with modern equipment and conveniences.

What new and remolded facilities are included in the master plan?

A new banquet hall, music suite, children's wing, youth and adult conference center, baptismal garden, atrium and gathering rooms are supported by additional office space, bathrooms and parking. Behind our existing family life center, an amphitheater and playing field are planned.

How many more members will the new facilities accommodate?

Currently, we are short on space. Our sanctuary capacity is 1300, our chapel 250, our music suites 60 and our children's classrooms number 13. Our youth use the Family Life Center, adults use our remaining classrooms, and our fellowship hall's capacity is 300. Our new banquet hall will triple our seating for meals and fellowships, and serve as an alternate worship center seating 1300. Children's youth and adult meeting space will be doubled, and the new music suite will triple the space available for rehearsal and storage. Parking space will be doubled, and restroom space tripled.

How urgent is the need?

We need to begin building as soon as possible. While our membership continues to grow, we have already reached full capacity in several ministries. Without the 3rd Century Plan, we will continue to own empty land, while our crowded buildings turn away people who want and need to join us.

What will it cost to build the 3rd Century Plan?

Our architect estimates that at current construction prices, we would need $20 million to complete every part of the master plan. If we approach the plan in phases, we will need several million dollars on hand to begin construction.

How can members help?

Some members already have given generously. You can make a onetime gift, or pledge to spread your support over the next three to five years. The most important thing, for each of us to do is to ask God to help us give according to the degree He has blessed us. Together, we can answer God's call to serve Gainesville, Hall County and the world well in the year to come.

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