Rationale:

The multipurpose room will enable musicians to practice without having to occupy the sanctuary, while also providing much needed storage for music equipment.  The multipurpose room will also have builtin storage for tables and chairs so the room can be used for different activities through out the week.  The conference room will be used for meetings, Bible studies, as well as any other gathering that is looking for a professional cozy space to meet.  The Acts of Grace space will replace the space that is lost when the current Acts of Grace storage room is converted to a bathroom.  The coffee room will have a kitchenette and ensure we can provide refreshments for activities in the new space.

FAQ

Why do we need a new building?

 This new building will allow us to better support worship, music, education, fellowship, and outreach, while creating welcoming and functional space for future generations of Grace.

What will the new building include?

 The new building is designed as multipurpose space that can be used by a variety of ministries. It will include flexible rooms for classes, meetings, fellowship, and events, improved storage, office and meeting space for staff and ministry leaders, additional restroom facilities, and areas that can adapt as needs change over time. While music and worship ministries will benefit, the space is intentionally designed to serve many areas of church life. 

How does this support our mission?

This project is about ministry, not just space. The new building will help us grow disciples, strengthen worship and music programs, better serve children, youth, and adults, and create space that can be used throughout the week by both the church and the community.

How does this support our ministries?

This building allows us to use space more intentionally and efficiently. Instead of rooms being limited to one purpose, the new space can support children’s ministry, youth, adult classes, small groups, music, outreach, meetings, and special events. It helps us better steward our campus and serve multiple ministries without competing for space. 

How does this help our weekday school?

The new building is designed to create flexibility and shared opportunity, not to serve only one ministry. While it is not a standalone school facility, it allows us to better coordinate space and function with our weekday school as needs arise. The design gives us the ability to partner more effectively by offering safer, more appropriate spaces for children when needed, while also supporting the broader life of the church.

Over the years, circumstances around land use, civil engineering, drainage, and permitting in Charleston required us to rethink earlier plans. Rather than a single-purpose building, we intentionally shifted toward a multipurpose approach that serves today’s realities while preparing for the future. This flexibility allows both the weekday school and the church to continue thriving side by side, sharing space thoughtfully and responsibly when it makes sense.

This project reflects our commitment to stewarding resources well and investing in future generations. While it may appear smaller than earlier concepts, it provides meaningful improvements that benefit many ministries, including classrooms, meetings, music, offices, bathrooms, and gathering space. In the end, this building strengthens our entire campus and supports a church that is prepared to serve the Charleston community for years to come.

How is this project being funded?

The project is funded through designated pledges and gifts, not from the church’s operating budget. Contributions are given specifically toward the building effort.

Were pledges already made for this project?

Yes. A previous pledge drive resulted in many generous commitments, and many members are faithfully fulfilling those pledges. As our church family has grown, we are also inviting new members to participate and asking existing pledges to be confirmed as we move forward.

Are members being asked to give again?

We are asking new members to prayerfully consider making a pledge, and existing pledgers to confirm or update their commitment if needed. Every gift, regardless of size, helps move the project forward.

What if I am not able to make a financial pledge?

Financial gifts are only one way to support this project. Prayer, encouragement, sharing information, and continued involvement in the life of the church are all meaningful ways to participate.

When will construction begin?

Our goal is to complete communication and pledge confirmations by April 2026. Construction timing will depend on final funding, approvals, and scheduling.

How can I stay informed?

Updates are available on our this page of our website.  You can also find information through the church e-news, announcements, and QR codes posted around campus.

Who should I contact with questions?

Pastor Ben always invites you to call the church office and schedule a time to meet with him "if you have questions about this, that, or the next thing."  He would love to hear what you have to say, answer any questions he can answer, and help find the answers to any questions he cannot answer.

Grace UMC Building Committee Members:

• Bill Pittard (Chair)
• Hank D'Antonio
• Brooke Floyd
• Marlene Hall
• John Lybrand
• Bruce Philpott
• Charles Smith
• Jack Wilks
• Pastor Ben Burt