From the handful of settlers who founded Opequon in 1732, to the large crowds
present at the end of the 18th Century, to the dwindling attendance following the
Civil War, to surging membership in the 1950s, then declining participation once
again, to our current vibrant congregation of more than 500 members, Opequon has
survived and, indeed, thrived. As has been the case from the very founding of OPC,
God is calling us to expand our facilities to better serve our community.
Over the past two years, we have gathered a lot of information as to "what's important" to our congregation, as well as community needs. Another important objective is for the items identified for the future expansion project to align with OPC's five pillars of development: Worship Enhancement, Member Engagement, Sharing Good News, Radical Hospitality, and Community Engagement.
Perspective images
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What is the Building Plan?The plan is to construct a new fellowship hall, a new commercial kitchen, a music center with rehearsal, office, and storage space, and additional general storage for staff tools and worship resources.
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Why are we embarking on this plan?The congregation is growing and needs space. Expansion of space for fellowship, social and mission events, and Christian education, as well as opportunities for community outreach, will enhance our ministry and service, in what we can do as a church and how we can engage the outside community.
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Why build the Fellowship Hall and kitchen facilities?Opequon has many events constrained by seating capacity, cooking space, and storage. The proposed Fellowship Hall will comfortably accommodate 275 people seated at tables with a separate serving area. The current Fellowship Hall has a capacity of 122 people seated at tables with no serving area.
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Why expand the music space?Music is an important part of our worship. We have a talented choir, music director, and organist. A music center for rehearsal and storage is needed to continue to encourage participation and show our appreciation for our music ministry.
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Will we need additional parking?We will not. The required parking is based on sanctuary seating only. The current parking arrangement is adequate for the additions.
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Why are we doing this now?Frederick County is the fastest growing county in Virginia and OPC continues to grow as well. We are a caring church which has allowed us to add active new members. Expanding our facilities illustrates our community focus. This forward-looking facility addition illustrates our commitment to the future and allows us to leave a legacy for OPC children and grandchildren.
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How much will this addition cost?The cost of construction has not been completed, but the current estimates are in the range of $3.2 million.
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How will this cost be financed?The hope is that over 50% will be met via our “A Place at the Table” Capital Campaign with contributions by church members. The remainder will be financed by a local financial institution.
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In 2001, the Capital Campaign included a 10% Mission Component. Will a Mission Component be included this time?Yes, a 10% Mission Component will be included, as approved by Session, to be divided between Bright Futures of Winchester/Frederick County, Family Promise of Winchester, Illubabor Bethel Synod of Ethiopia, and New Opportunities for Romanian Orphaned Children (NOROC).
Contact
info
If you have questions or ideas you wish to share, please send them to opcvisionteam@gmail.com
