Gathering Space

We’re excited to share that the Gathering Space project has received full permitting approval, and we expect to break ground in the coming weeks.

A lot of time has passed since this project began, so a quick review may be helpful. The project was born out of our 2021 “Placed for a Purpose” discussions, building a vision for ministry at 3700, in our neighborhoods, and across Charlotte and the world. Beginning in 2022, our church funded initiatives in each of these areas, including transitional housing through Heal Charlotte, neighborhood ministry grants and training, and initial plans for a new gathering space for our church and surrounding community.

In 2023, staff and volunteers began working with an architectural firm called The Adams Group to develop the gathering space design. Eventually the Session approved an expanded plan that included restrooms, green space, and a multi-use coffee shop. Following permitting, contractor bids, and several plan revisions, we are finally ready to begin construction. Though the process has taken longer than anticipated, we remain grateful for the Lord’s guidance, and are confident as we go forward that the Lord is still moving us in this direction.

The questions below explain the project’s purpose, what to expect during construction, and how the completed space will serve our church and community.

FAQs

  • The Gathering Space is our vision realized physically on our campus. It offers a welcoming, flexible use area where relationships can grow throughout the week. It’s a creation of a “third space” where we can be intentional in being bridges of grace with each other, our friends, neighbors, and community. It will enhance our intentional community on Sunday mornings, while also providing vibrant space that supports conversation, connection, discipleship, and gospel opportunities the other six days a week.

  • During the week, we intend for this space to be used as a coffee shop in partnership with a local company, Kunu Coffee, who has experience partnering with churches. During most evenings and other hours, the space may be utilized for church meetings, small groups, and community gatherings, and it will be manned by our hospitality team on Sundays with our usual free coffee and snacks. The exact weekly schedule will be developed as construction progresses.

  • Although construction projects are affected by a number of factors, we are cautiously optimistic that the entire project will be complete in about five months, just in time for Easter. We will share significant updates along the way.

  • Construction will temporarily change normal traffic and pedestrian patterns around our campus. The area will be safely fenced off, and clearly marked signs will direct worshipers, preschool families, and visitors to the appropriate entrances and parking areas. New opportunities can be messy, of course, and we ask you to be flexible as we adapt to the temporary challenges.

  • The safety and daily operation of our preschool remain a priority. Preschool access, drop-off and pickup, outdoor play, and emergency routes have already been adjusted, and future changes will be coordinated to ensure minimal disturbance. Families will receive advance notice of any temporary changes that affect their normal routine.

  • We’re almost there! Since the very beginning, most of the funding has come from a previous designated building fund, an expense line incorporated into our general budget since 2023, and generous giving from donors in our church. With the additional budgeted allocation from this year’s budget, we should be fully funded by the end of the year.

Have a question that’s not answered here?

Please contact info@stonebridge.org and we’ll pass it to the relevant person.

We value your prayers as we pursue this significant addition to our church property.