Building Update

Yesterday I gave an exciting and important update concerning our church property, building, and expansion plans. For those who missed it or would like a reminder of what was announced, here is a recap. My hope is that you will take this to God in prayer, asking Him to do exceedingly abundantly above all we could ever ask or think (Ephesians 3:20).


A Bit Of History

In 1996 Calvary Chapel Monterey Bay, then known as Calvary Chapel of the Monterey Peninsula, moved into our current church property and building. This move was a step of faith and a demonstration of God’s grace, and was immediately deemed successful as the church grew leaps and bounds in those first few years.

7 or 8 years ago CCMB purchased the neighboring undeveloped lot, submitted a plan to the powers that be for a large-scale sanctuary (22,000 sq. ft.), a smaller children’s wing (3,500 sq. ft.), and a large parking lot to accommodate the new buildings and expected growth. The city approved, contingent on water, which the new land did not have.

Knowing that we didn’t have the people, savings, or water to build a large sanctuary, CCMB approached the city and asked if we could build out part of the planned parking lot, a move that has benefitted us as we commonly have Sundays with only a handful of empty parking spaces available.

Still, CCMB was waterless.


A Praise Report

That was until last summer. In the fall of 2006 Pastor Roger Scalice commissioned a small group of men to pursue water for future building purposes. After a few twists and turns along the way, the group discovered a way for us to gain the appropriate water for the entire approved 26,000 sq. ft. building project.

This is an incredible praise report! God has been so good to us.

Still, the blessing was mixed. We quickly discovered the water usage had an expiration date - our project needed to be initiated by May 2009! This prompted us to inquire of the powers that be: Since we are not yet ready to build the larger sanctuary, would it be acceptable to merely begin the smaller 3,500 sq. ft. building, thereby securing the water for the larger building? Answer: Yes.

Again, a wonderful praise report.


Our Prayerful Decision

We will immediately begin the process of building a very economical 3,500 sq. ft. children/youth wing, as funds allow. We will also make an effort, as God provides, to spruce up our current sanctuary setting. This will do numerous things for us as a church:

- Secure water for the future.
- Provide us much needed classroom space for children and youth.
- Keep us from a cost-prohibitive large-scale project during these dark economic times.


Our Need For Prayer

I believe God has us initiating this building project for a reason - He wants to use it! I believe He longs to use our church for His honor and glory. Please pray for God’s provision and protection over CCMB. Ask Him to bless His word, that it may run swiftly and be glorified (2 Thessalonians 3:1).

To God be the glory!