FORWARD FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Initiative Questions:
1. What will we do if we run out of space before the expansion is completed?
God has blessed us with growth, and if space continues to become limited, we’ll encourage worshippers to take advantage of all our current worship service options, as well as prayerfully consider implementing additional worship services at other times.
2. Will we consider doing multisite?
Yes! We already operate as a multisite church with our Ocala and Dunnellon campuses, and we’re open to further expansion in this way. Multisite allows us to extend the love of Christ to more communities, multiplying our ministry impact while maintaining our family-like connection.
3. Will we consider church planting?
Absolutely. Church planting is a beautiful, Spirit-led way to fulfill the Great Commission. As God opens doors and calls individuals from our congregation, we’ll support new plants to spread the Gospel and build vibrant faith communities.
4. Will we have parking challenges at the campus?
Growth can bring some parking hurdles, but we’re proactively addressing them with expanded lots in our plans. We see this as an opportunity to serve our community better, ensuring a warm welcome for everyone God brings our way.
5. Are we becoming too large?
Our size is a testament to God’s work, not a drawback. We prioritize deep relationships through LifeGroups and personal discipleship, ensuring no one gets lost in the crowd. As we grow, our heart remains to reach the lost and disciple believers effectively.
6. What is the real problem? Why do we need to expand?
The “problem” is actually a divine opportunity—God is drawing more souls to Himself through our ministries! Expansion provides the space to welcome them, equip believers, and launch outreach, all to glorify Jesus and transform lives.
7. Could we have anticipated this problem we are seeking to solve now?
While we’ve stewarded wisely and planned, God’s blessings often surpass our foresight—like the pace of the growth we’ve seen. This expansion is our faithful step to honor His momentum and prepare for even more.
8. What other options were considered as alternatives to this expansion?
We carefully reviewed adding more services, enhancing online presence, relocating services, and expanding our current buildings for space. Each was prayed over to discern the best path forward.
9. Why were these options not chosen?
These alternatives offer valuable short-term relief, but they couldn’t fully support our long-term vision. Physical expansion ensures lasting capacity for worship, education, and mission, aligning with our commitment to sustainable kingdom growth.
10. Are there phases to this expansion? What do they include? What will they cost?
Yes. Phase 1 of the project will include all of the site work (i.e., grading, excavation, stormwater management, parking, etc.). Phase 1 cost estimates are around $2,500,000. Phase 2 of the project will include the actual multi-purpose building, and the cost of the building is approximately $6,000,000.
11. What guardrails are in place to ensure that we don’t overextend ourselves? Have we planned for problems?
Our staff, stewardship committee, treasurer, and external bookkeeper oversee budgets with prayer, reserve funds, and regular financial reviews. Along with a thorough and conservative evaluation from the Florida Baptist Financial Services, we’ve built in flexibility for challenges, trusting God’s provision while practicing prudent stewardship.
12. Have we been able to reduce our indebtedness? What is our indebtedness currently?
Yes, through faithful giving and wise management, we currently have no debt. We praise God for financial health. Full details are available in our annual financial reports, which are accessible to members.
Tactical Questions:
1. Why do we believe we can expand our giving beyond what is currently being given?
We’ve seen God’s faithfulness in past seasons, where prayerful generosity has exceeded expectations. With the Holy Spirit stirring hearts, our congregation’s track record of joyful giving positions us to rise together for this vision.
2. What is a commitment card?
It’s a prayerful declaration of your intended gifts over the campaign period, allowing us to plan with faith and wisdom while honoring your personal response to God.
3. Why do I need to fill out a commitment card? Isn’t my giving between me and God?
Yes, giving is deeply personal between you and God. The card helps us collectively steward the vision, fostering encouragement and accountability as we unite in God’s work.
4. What is the best way to give?
The best way is cheerfully, as the Lord prompts (2 Corinthians 9:7)! Options include online giving, envelopes during services, stocks, or planned gifts—whatever multiplies His kingdom.
5. Will giving to our campaign hurt funding for the annual budget?
No, we encourage gifts above regular tithes and offerings. This approach sustains current ministries while fueling expansion, resulting in an even more substantial impact.
6. Why is the project called “FORWARD”?
The “Forward” initiative reflects our commitment to boldly advance God’s Kingdom by building a new multipurpose facility to serve as a beacon of hope and love. The name captures “Forward in Worship” (expanding space for all our worship services), “Forward for Family” (providing more space for children, students, and LifeGroups), and “Forward to Eternity” (enabling more opportunities for faithful service). Over 24 months, we’re called to step “Forward” in prayer, engagement, and giving to realize our vision of “Faith Family Forever,” connecting everyone to worship, Life Groups, and service.
7. What does our church ministry expansion project include, and why are we doing it?
It includes a new worship area for our English services, additional classrooms for Bible study, a new Student Ministry suite, and a new Main Office suite for the staff and mid-week visitors. It also includes an expanded Children’s Ministry area including a new playground and larger worship spaces for Spanish and Haitian Creole worship services. We’re doing it to accommodate God’s growth, disciple more believers, and reach our community with hope in Jesus.
8. How will all these funds be used? Can I see a reasonable breakdown of where we will apply the giving?
The money from the “Forward” campaign will fund 2 years of operational budget to sustain and strengthen existing ministries and mission efforts, while also supporting the construction of a new multipurpose facility to expand our outreach and accommodate growth. It will fund both Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the project. The entire process will be open and transparent, with frequent updates provided to the congregation.
9. When do we expect to begin these projects, and how long will it take to complete?
We hope to begin Phase 1 of the project as soon as the site plan receives the appropriate permits. We plan to begin construction of the building (Phase 2) after a 24-month Capital Campaign period. Once the appropriate funds have been raised, we anticipate the construction period will last between 12 and 18 months. This timeline allows for quality work and God’s perfect timing, minimizing interruptions.
10. How will this project affect our current ministries?
It will energize them! While there may be brief adjustments, the result will be expanded capacity, enabling ministries to flourish and touch more lives for Christ.
11. How do we see God working through our church during the project?
We’re already witnessing increased unity, generous hearts, and new visitors. God is using this to deepen faith, spark testimonies, and draw people closer to Him.
12. How do we know that the cost is not too much and not too little?
Through expert consultations, benchmarking with similar projects, and fervent prayer, our estimates strike a balance for excellence without extravagance—ensuring wise use of every dollar for eternal value.
Giving Questions:
1. What is the stance of our leaders regarding debt, biblically and philosophically?
Biblically, we heed warnings like Proverbs 22:7 to avoid unnecessary debt, viewing it as servitude best minimized. Philosophically, we prioritize freedom to serve God unencumbered, using debt only judiciously with plans for swift repayment.
2. When will I be giving?
Giving begins now and spans the pledge period, with flexible scheduling to align with your circumstances and God’s provision.
3. Can I give online?
Yes! Our secure platform at collegeroad.org makes it safe and straightforward, allowing you to give anytime with peace of mind.
4. What is the length of the pledge commitment?
Pledges are for two years, providing a focused season to contribute significantly while witnessing the fruits of collective faithfulness.
5. How do I make my pledge if I am unable to attend commitment Sunday?
No issue—submit online via our website or contact the church office. We’re here to support your step of faith.
6. Can I change my commitment if I need to over the giving season?
Yes, absolutely. Life can shift, so we welcome adjustments—reach out, and we’ll update with grace and understanding.
7. What if I’m a college student?
Your heart for God is inspiring! Consider pledging time in service, consistent small gifts, consistent prayer, or one-time gifts—God multiplies every offering from a willing spirit.
8. What if I don’t have a job right now? What does that mean for my commitment?
We understand uncertainty; we commit to what God provides, even if it’s non-financial, such as volunteering. Your faithfulness in presence and prayer is invaluable.
9. What if I can’t afford to give right now?
Giving is from your heart, not pressure. You can’t give what you don’t have. Seek the Lord; perhaps start with non-monetary gifts. We’re family, and we’re here to walk with you.
10. What if I’m severely in debt right now? Am I still supposed to give?
Prioritize debt freedom as a step of stewardship. If led, small, faith-stretching gifts can begin; we can provide some financial counseling that can offer biblical advice to help.
11. Why do churches talk about money, finances, and giving so much?
Because Jesus did—it’s woven into trusting God as Provider (Matthew 6). It cultivates generous hearts, funds the mission, and leads to spiritual growth.
12. How are we seeking the Spirit’s leading in these efforts?
Through our dedicated prayer ministry, Scripture study, spiritual leadership, and congregational feedback, we’re attuned to His guidance, ensuring every step honors Him.
13. How do I know that this church is a trustworthy place to give my resources?
Our finances undergo annual financial reviews, with reports openly shared. More importantly, lives changed and ministries thriving testify to God’s faithful use of gifts here at College Road.
14. Why are we considering a “Vision Fund” (One Fund) approach?
This unifies our giving streams, simplifying contributions while channeling everything toward our holistic vision. It mirrors biblical oneness, amplifying our ability to advance the Gospel.
15. Will this approach take away all our special funds and offerings?
Not at all—all of our designated funds are still available, and we will continue to promote, support, and give to our mission and ministry partners both through our budget and through special offerings.