I was thrilled to announce during Life Together last Sunday that our final plans for the Pavilion had entered the permitting process and that a groundbreaking for the project is now firmly in sight for early July. We had originally communicated our vision for and excitement over the Pavilion before Christmas, and at that point the dominoes seemed ordered and poised to fall in line for a seamless start and a finished project.
In that communication, we concluded with Proverbs 16:9, “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” Our plans were ordered and, well, well-planned, but it is now that the Lord seems pleased to establish our steps. The dominoes are beginning to fall and that long wait only serves to increase our joy and trust in God’s provision. Rejoice with me!
Three motivations continue to animate our decision to move forward with this unique opportunity:
- Making room for relationship: One of the most pressing needs for our congregation and our community is a place for connection, fellowship, and hospitality. This functional, beautiful pavilion will provide a space for gatherings and meals and services. We are envisioning congregational picnics, VBS, RUF gatherings for Wake and WSSU, Young Life clubs, Vespers services, Summer concerts, weddings, and these only scratch the surface of possibility.
- Growing in Stewardship and Development: This project allows Hope to move forward in stewardship of our campus and to develop aspects of the Master Site plan envisioned by and entrusted to us from the earliest members of Hope. The anonymous gift which was a catalyst for this project will hopefully inspire generosity for us all.
- Unifying in Mission: With so much splintered connection over the course of the pandemic, we can often feel that there is little we can accomplish together as a church. This project can galvanize us in ministry.
But for now I eagerly invite you to celebrate, give thanks, and pray that this Pavilion will be the blessing we trust it will be!
Grace and peace,
David