The Transforming Grace project at Grace Brethren Church, Long Beach, Calif., will renovate their existing sanctuary, as shown in this architectural rendering.The Grace Brethren Investment Foundation, Inc. (GBIF) recently approved the financing of projects at the Grace Brethren Church of Long Beach, Calif., and the Grace Brethren Church of Marysville, Ohio.
The Long Beach church (Dr. Lou Huesmann, pastor) is planning to transform their 43-year-old, 19,094 square foot sanctuary so that it is “conducive to 21st century standards, enhances the worship experience, and reflects the hope that we have for being used by God in the coming years,” according Ralph Hampton, church administrator. The church has raised nearly $2.6 million via a capital campaign and GBIF will provide the additional financing to complete the renovation.
This phase of the “Transforming Grace” project will include all new seating on the main floor and balcony (1,011 seats); all new floor coverings for the lobby, aisles, and stage plus vinyl under the seats; sandblasting the brick to reveal the natural colors; refurbishing a Steinway grand piano; enlarging and upgrading the restrooms; new bride’s and groom’s rooms; new lobby glass doors (eight double-door sets); and new video intercom at the sidewalk for people requesting access assistance.
At Marysville, Ohio, the Grace Brethren Church (Clancy Cruise, pastor) is constructing a new worship facility. The 16,000 square foot building will be situated on 20 acres of land, owned free and clear by the church, at 17240 Amrine Wood Road. It will include a sanctuary/gymnasium, children’s ministry classrooms, a youth room, rooms for toddlers and infants, a gathering space, office space, kitchen, restrooms, mechanical rooms, and room for storage.
“Over the years by God’s grace, dozens have responded to the Gospel and been baptized,” says Pastor Clancy Cruise. “We have witnessed over 200 first-time decisions and 300 baptisms since we started the church. Through the years we have prayed hard, served faithfully, grown well, and grieved deeply. Through it all we are wiser and more united than ever. With that wisdom and unity, it is time to build a church home and make room for more to come to know Jesus!”