Thank you so much for your partnership through prayer and financial support as we seek where God will have us next as our lease expires in 2025. As we bring this opportunity forward, it is our desire to share as much as we can to answer many of the questions we have been hearing.
Frequently asked questions:
Why this property? Is it still central to our church?
Over the past 8 months we have explored a wide range of properties. Our priorities have been a property that is central to our members, offers sufficient square footage, parking, and offers a space (indoor or outdoor) for our kids. This property is the first opportunity within our price range that meets these criteria.
In terms of location, we appreciate that any move will be closer to some of our church and further from others. We have mapped our regular attenders by location and this location is quite central to our church.
It is noteworthy that this location is also within walking distance of several of the local college campuses.
Now that we own the building, when will Riverbend move in?
The current church wishes to continue gathering in that church until the end of the year. A lease-back option has been established in which they will pay us rent (enough to cover the current Riverbend space rent) until they vacate the property in December 2024. After that, we will do any required updates and plan to move in winter 2025.
Does this end the Foundations for the Valley capital campaign?
It does not. It is the generous giving through the campaign that gives us confidence to recommend this property and we greatly value your partnership in making this a reality.
We expect the campaign to remain open at least through the previously communicated end date of October 2026 as contributors honor the commitments God put on their hearts. During this time, we expect any additional need or opportunity to become apparent and will continue to communicate those updates as they become known.
This is a more traditional church property. How will this change our style of worship?
We do not expect that the change in venue will change Rivebend’s worship style, culture, or ethos. We look forward to being able to make this traditional space one that feels more like ‘home’ to our Riverbend family.
We have engaged with local churches who have navigated these unique challenges that we have and will continue to glean wisdom from.