GIBE Building Update
GIBE Campaign Givers and JW Church Family,
First, I apologize for not sharing an update sooner, but it is time to share some important updates with you about the progress of our GIBE Campaign and how your prayers and generosity are shaping the future of our ministry spaces.
GIBE Campaign Funds
We have received over $1.036 million in contributions toward the more than $3.035 million pledged over our three-year campaign. These funds have allowed us to complete the Pavilion, purchase new audio equipment, pay an initial architectural invoice, and invest remaining funds—creating a meaningful return for the church while we finalize construction plans. Your current donations are bringing a future blessing! If you haven’t pledged, please find more information and a link to pledge {HERE}.
Architect Contract Signed & Pre-Construction Phase Begins
Our Core Leadership Team (CLT) has officially authorized the signing of a contract with Mark W. Todd Architects, and that contract was signed and initiated between the parties. Our new architects bring a wealth of experience and their fees do not negatively affect our budget. This has now launched the Pre-Construction Phase for Phase 1 renovations of our Sanctuary and Welcome Center.
The Building Team led by Larry Leavell, has held several important meeting with the architects and most recently this week. I hope to be able to send out a major update after Thanksgiving which will include renderings of what our spaces might look like once finishes are selected. As the design phase comes to a close, the Building Team will be working with the architects to choose finishes/colors at the beginning of the new year.
Pre-Construction Schedule (began September 15)
• 8 weeks – Schematic Design (September–November)
• 3 weeks – Initial Pricing (sent out to General Contractors beginning November 19)
• 4 weeks – Design Development
• 6 weeks – Construction Documents
• 8 weeks – Permitting and Bidding
Total: 29 weeks, with a target completion date of April 15, 2026 (just after Easter).
Current estimates suggest that construction on the Sanctuary space will begin in May.
Note
During this pre-construction period, the CLT and the Executive Finance Team will evaluate financing needs for the project. If additional debt is required for Phase 1, the CLT will bring that recommendation before all active members of the congregation in a special called Church Conference. We are moving step by step—faithfully and strategically.
Sanctuary Audio Updates
You may not have noticed the audio upgrades in the Sanctuary which began in November. A few key pieces are being installed:
• New microphones
• A new soundboard
• Supporting components to improve audio mixing for both in-person and online worship
One of the most exciting parts of this upgrade is our new assisted listening system, designed specifically to support those with hearing challenges.
Hearing-Assisted Technology — Future-Proofed with Auracast
Our new system is equipped with Auracast, the next generation of Assistive Listening Systems (ALS). This technology will greatly enhance how spoken word and music are experienced in worship:
• Seamless connectivity: Connect as easily as joining Wi-Fi. Open your hearing aid app, and Auracast streams will appear.
• Enhanced sound quality: A pure, direct digital audio signal that cuts through background noise and echo.
• Discreet access: Streams directly to compatible hearing aids—no neckloop or external receiver needed.
• Multi-language potential: In the future, multiple channels (such as real-time interpretation) can be offered.
Those with newer Auracast-capable hearing aids will be able to connect directly to our livestream audio feed. Others will still benefit from two additional technology options that ensure clear and reliable listening support.
Pavilion Building Completed
We are also celebrating that the Pavilion has been fully completed—funded directly through the GIBE Campaign! This renovated space will be a blessing to our church family and our community for gatherings, ministry, and fellowship. If you have a moment, stop by and take a look one Sunday morning.
All of this is possible because of your faith, prayers, and generosity.
Thank you for being part of what God is doing through John Wesley.
Together, we are proving once again that God Is Big Enough.
In Christ,
Dr. Marty Dunbar
Senior Pastor
First, I apologize for not sharing an update sooner, but it is time to share some important updates with you about the progress of our GIBE Campaign and how your prayers and generosity are shaping the future of our ministry spaces.
GIBE Campaign Funds
We have received over $1.036 million in contributions toward the more than $3.035 million pledged over our three-year campaign. These funds have allowed us to complete the Pavilion, purchase new audio equipment, pay an initial architectural invoice, and invest remaining funds—creating a meaningful return for the church while we finalize construction plans. Your current donations are bringing a future blessing! If you haven’t pledged, please find more information and a link to pledge {HERE}.
Architect Contract Signed & Pre-Construction Phase Begins
Our Core Leadership Team (CLT) has officially authorized the signing of a contract with Mark W. Todd Architects, and that contract was signed and initiated between the parties. Our new architects bring a wealth of experience and their fees do not negatively affect our budget. This has now launched the Pre-Construction Phase for Phase 1 renovations of our Sanctuary and Welcome Center.
The Building Team led by Larry Leavell, has held several important meeting with the architects and most recently this week. I hope to be able to send out a major update after Thanksgiving which will include renderings of what our spaces might look like once finishes are selected. As the design phase comes to a close, the Building Team will be working with the architects to choose finishes/colors at the beginning of the new year.
Pre-Construction Schedule (began September 15)
• 8 weeks – Schematic Design (September–November)
• 3 weeks – Initial Pricing (sent out to General Contractors beginning November 19)
• 4 weeks – Design Development
• 6 weeks – Construction Documents
• 8 weeks – Permitting and Bidding
Total: 29 weeks, with a target completion date of April 15, 2026 (just after Easter).
Current estimates suggest that construction on the Sanctuary space will begin in May.
Note
During this pre-construction period, the CLT and the Executive Finance Team will evaluate financing needs for the project. If additional debt is required for Phase 1, the CLT will bring that recommendation before all active members of the congregation in a special called Church Conference. We are moving step by step—faithfully and strategically.
Sanctuary Audio Updates
You may not have noticed the audio upgrades in the Sanctuary which began in November. A few key pieces are being installed:
• New microphones
• A new soundboard
• Supporting components to improve audio mixing for both in-person and online worship
One of the most exciting parts of this upgrade is our new assisted listening system, designed specifically to support those with hearing challenges.
Hearing-Assisted Technology — Future-Proofed with Auracast
Our new system is equipped with Auracast, the next generation of Assistive Listening Systems (ALS). This technology will greatly enhance how spoken word and music are experienced in worship:
• Seamless connectivity: Connect as easily as joining Wi-Fi. Open your hearing aid app, and Auracast streams will appear.
• Enhanced sound quality: A pure, direct digital audio signal that cuts through background noise and echo.
• Discreet access: Streams directly to compatible hearing aids—no neckloop or external receiver needed.
• Multi-language potential: In the future, multiple channels (such as real-time interpretation) can be offered.
Those with newer Auracast-capable hearing aids will be able to connect directly to our livestream audio feed. Others will still benefit from two additional technology options that ensure clear and reliable listening support.
Pavilion Building Completed
We are also celebrating that the Pavilion has been fully completed—funded directly through the GIBE Campaign! This renovated space will be a blessing to our church family and our community for gatherings, ministry, and fellowship. If you have a moment, stop by and take a look one Sunday morning.
All of this is possible because of your faith, prayers, and generosity.
Thank you for being part of what God is doing through John Wesley.
Together, we are proving once again that God Is Big Enough.
In Christ,
Dr. Marty Dunbar
Senior Pastor
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