BUILD more room for God
Summer update
As the road to BUILD outstretches before us, God has faithfully directed our steps. This past summer, we’ve made some great initial strides as we journeyed through hilltops and valleys – we had some successes, some challenges… and even pain.
On August 3, we received the news that Iris Damkar passed away. Ernie and Iris Damkar (and Norman Damkar) are the benefactors of the land recently donated to CSC for the construction of our Northwest Campus. On August 13, a funeral was held at our Central Campus to honour the life of a person who inspired all of us with her determination, hard work and generosity.
“Iris dearly looked forward to seeing the Northwest Campus on this land,” said Pastor Lawson. “And because she trusted Jesus as her Saviour and Lord, we believe she will!”
As a church we send out our heartfelt condolences to the Damkar family, and our prayers for comfort during this time of loss.
Northwest Campus update
BUILD community connection
This past summer, we have been praying, planning and engaging the community as part of our Development Permit application process.
“Initially we had some setbacks but, as it happens, these were opportunities in disguise,” said Gentry Stickel, Executive Pastor of Operations. “We truly believe God had his hand in the process.”
In June, we asked for a time extension in our Development Permit application process due to technicalities around building height. Prior to our meeting with Rocky View County, it came to our attention that some neighbouring residents are concerned with the height of our future Northwest Campus. “While some people expressed concerns at the hearing, it is also very encouraging to note how many voices of strong support for the church were in attendance,” said Northwest Campus Pastor Lawson.
“The extension was a great opportunity to engage the community, clarify any misperceptions and meet our new future neighbours,” added Pastor Gentry.
Over July and August we held four community meetings, including two open house meetings for community members in Bearspaw and Watermark to see our plans, ask questions, receive clarification and provide comments.
“We enjoyed getting to know many of CSC’s future neighbours while receiving valuable feedback,” said Larry Fournier, Project Manager for BUILD. “Much of that feedback was used to revise and update our plans as part of our Development Permit application process.” To see what that feedback was and the commitments we have made to the community click here
On August 29, we will reconvene with Rocky View County. Church, please be praying a successful outcome – approval of our Development Permit! When we pray as a church, God uses every challenge for His glory. He is up to something good!
If you or someone you know lives in the Watermark Community, or Bearspaw area, you can help us by submitting a letter of support for the project to the County. Contact us at communications@cschurch.ca for all of the details.
Central Campus Updates
Plans are moving forward!
This past summer was a productive time for all our BUILD room for God projects.
Our leaders and BUILD Project Manager held multiple meetings with the architect, producing conceptual drawings for the Central Campus expansion including a master plan.
“Meetings have now been scheduled in mid-August through to early September to engage church staff and ministry groups in reviewing the preliminary conceptual drawings and master plan,” said Project Manager, Larry Fournier. “We are excited to receive more detailed feedback from the staff so we can further refine the building plans and get them to where they need to be.”
The church has also received an indication from the City of Calgary that we can proceed with applying for a Development Permit (DP) for our Central Campus. The CSC Building Committee has approved moving forward with our architects to prepare Development Permit drawings to submit for the DP application.
“Please be praying for God’s hand to remain in this entire process with all our BUILD projects.” said Pastor Gentry
A note from our BUILD Prayer Committee Chair
Dear Centre Street Church,
Please pray with us as preparations continue in the journey toward construction. Specifically, pray for a successful outcome regarding the Development Permit application for our Northwest Campus. Pray for wisdom and clarity while we plan project timelines and details, as new information and developments come to light. Give thanks for the way in which God is providing what is needed, both financially and in wisdom and direction. And church, pray that we, God’s people, will be built up in faith, so that we may grow in prayer, generosity and concern for others, especially those whose lives may be impacted for eternity by these building projects.
Yours in Christ,
Lucas van Boeschoten, Chair of the BUILD campaign prayer committee.