Freedom on Powers - 1st Anniversary Update
On November 4, 2007, we celebrated the first anniversary of our Freedom on Powers Debt Reduction Campaign. The campaign kicked off with Commitment Sunday on October 29, 2006 and members brought their “first fruits” on November 12, 2006. The original commitment to Freedom on Powers was $1.6M dollars. Over the past year our members have been faithful to the campaign and more than honored their commitments.
The theme of our first anniversary was “Thanksgiving” - praising God for the blessings he has bestowed upon us and thanking our members for the sacrificial gifts they have made. The evening consisted of outstanding music from Alive, our High School Choir, a special message from RSI Consultant Mark Blackmore, a status update on the campaign, and a personal testimony from Keith Keana. Thanksgiving style desserts were enjoyed at the close of the service.
Since the beginning of the campaign, the Lord has truly blessed our church and members. The original Freedom on Powers commitment has grown to $1.67M dollars and approximately $632,000 has been received as of Oct 31, 2007. All of the money received from Freedom on Powers is applied to debt reduction. Our original debt has been reduced from $5.6M to $4.9M. Although we are only 1/3 of the way through the campaign, we have received approximately 40% of the dollars committed.
The need for debt reduction and facility expansion has increased. Our church membership continues to grow about 10% annually. The church bulletin shows weekly attendance averages nearly 1100 people. In the next two years, our attendance could (very conservatively), reach 1400 – 1500 people. God is guiding people to Vista Grande, and as faithful servants, we must honor his calling.
Our church staff, deacons and key committees are working on ways to accommodate the growth over the next few years. Our Property Development Committee will be working with architects and contractors over the next year to consider, and plan for, current and projected ministry requirements that can be accommodated in a Phase III building program. They will bring these recommendations to the church body for discussion and approval prior to starting any Phase III activity.
We thank those church members who have made a commitment to Freedom on Powers and ask them to continue honoring that commitment. For those members who have not made a commitment, we ask that you prayerfully consider making a commitment, no matter what the amount. As we heard at the first anniversary celebration; “The best years of Vista Grande are ahead of us.” God is great!
Total Commitment: $1,639,211 
