First Christian Church has been in its current location in downtown Shelbyville, IN since 1901. As with many small towns in predominately rural areas, the appeal of and easy access via interstate to a larger city (in this case, Indianapolis) contributed to the decline of the downtown area.
So in 2004, the forward-thinking leaders of the church guided the congregation in raising more than $500,000 to purchase 40 acres of land near the interstate on the outskirts of town. With eyes on the construction of a modern facility on their new site, the congregation continued to raise funds for the future construction project.
Unfortunately, the economy took a downturn and, coupled with the discovery that costly site work was required on the new property prior to construction, the congregation put its plans on hold.
By 2015 the economy had improved and so, too, had downtown Shelbyville. First Christian Church had reached decision time – should they build on their new site on the outskirts of town, or stay in their current location and do extensive renovations to make their building accessible and updated? With the help of Disciples Church Extension Fund Building and Capital Services Advisors Maribeth Westerfield and Jim Michel, the congregation took a good hard look at the facts and determined that their 180-year history in the community was better served by staying put.
The surrounding neighborhood now features a new upscale senior housing facility within a block of the church, and the city has additional plans for revitalization and improvement of retail and living spaces. First Christian Church has a unique opportunity to be a part of this resurgence by providing its facility and its members for programs and events, in an effort to meet the social and spiritual needs of the community.
But first, the building has to be made accessible. In its current configuration, only the sanctuary is accessible, via a ramp at a side entrance. The upper-level education and the lower level fellowship hall are totally inaccessible to those with mobility issues.
In a Disciples Church Extension Fund (DCEF) led capital campaign last summer, First Christian Church oversubscribed its goal of $500,000 by more than $100,000!
With the funds raised in capital campaigns over the last 15 years and a loan through DCEF, the congregation is ready to break ground on a completely new entrance that offers an open and well-lit gathering space and an elevator to access all three floors of the building. A member of the congregation said,
“I will get to go up to the upper level for the first time in 30 years.”
Additional projects include improvements to the HVAC and electrical systems, as well as major renovations to the sanctuary. A new roof and paved parking add even more curb appeal to this major undertaking.
The 40-acre tract of land that was once considered for relocation will be sold and the funds will be used for the project. Bill Horner, minister of First Christian Church, says the church has been
“a vital part of this community for more than 180 years….We have the resources to help feed the poor, counsel the afflicted, and make a difference in the life of this community.”
With a newly accessible building, First Christian Church is making the right move.