First Baptist Church holds ‘freedom from debt’ special service
Dr. Greg Thompson, pastor, addressed the congregation of First Baptist Church in Rockmart during a special service on Sunday, June 12.
Dr. Thompson asked the question, “How did we get to this day?” He was referring to the church meeting a financial challenge, which began in January 2007.
At that time, a property study committee was appointed to develop a long-range usage plan for church property. The plan included all aspects of current and anticipated ministry needs.
Following a time of visiting other churches for ideas, the committee reported the need for a 3-phase renovation and construction plan to fulfill current and future needs of church ministries.
Phase one was the renovation of the original chapel into an open area for children’s ministry and worship.
Phase two was the largest and most expensive. It included construction of the church Great Room and Welcome Center and an elevator for second floor access.
Phase three would be renovation of the entire educational space on the second floor.
Thereafter, a renovation and construction committee was approved.
The construction committee began two tasks. One was to meet with architect firms to get the design and schematic drawings necessary for construction and to negotiate with a contractor. Second was to begin a pledge campaign to fund the construction beyond the monies set aside for the work.
A “Whole Heart Fund” was established with pledges for 3 years, but many gave large one-time gifts up front.
After construction began in early 2010, the adjacent property became available for purchase. The church had known of this potential option becoming available at a future date. This purchase and improvement to parking space, of course, added to the total cost.
Another surprise cost was the state requirements that a fire sprinkler system be placed in the sanctuary. Some members and friends donated landscaping and roofing that helped reduce the final cost.
Construction was completed in October 2010 at a total cost of $1.45 million. Due to the economy, the church borrowed $550,000 from Bobby Gurley. Payments began in March 2011 and was “paid in full” in May 2016.
Dr. Thompson referred to how the church had met the building challenges and how God had blessed those involved.
Thereafter, he invited Dan Casey, former chair of the Trustees, Ronald Lovell, current chair of the Trustees and Deacons, Allen Bullard, church treasurer, Kim Lane, church clerk and secretary of the incorpo- ration, Mike Tomlin, construction committee and Bobby Gurley, to come to the altar area and burn the debt note.