A Note From Scott:
We are excited about what God is doing at New Hope! It is a joy to see people coming to Christ, people who are maturing in their faith, and people whose lives are changed because of God’s power.
To make room for more people we are entering our Legacy Campaign. Our challenge is to leave a legacy of faith for those who will come after us, just as those who came before us left a legacy that has allowed us to be able to meet at 3300 Kirby Whitten.
This brochure will provide some answers to the most frequently asked questions. We hope and pray that this will help you. But we also know that you might have more questions, so we are providing a small card below that you can turn in, and we will get back to you as soon as we can with a response.
We are asking you to pray. Pray about what God is calling you to do on your journey of faith. Pray about your commitment. Pray for those who lead us in this effort. And pray always that God, and God alone, is glorified in all that we do.
Through Christ,
Legacy - A Journey of Faith
is the theme for our capital stewardship campaign. It will eliminate our current debt, make needed improvements on our existing building, and raise funds to construct a new multi-purpose addition while we continue with excellence where God is leading us with our ongoing ministries.
In 1895 a small band of believers began a journey
of faith by establishing a Christian church
in the rural community of Raleigh, Tennessee.
A legacy of faith began. 115 years later, that
legacy still continues. Today we are stepping out
in faith as Christ Followers to leave our own
legacy of faith for those who will follow us.
What is a capital stewardship campaign?It is simply a way to challenge us financially to accomplish what God is leading New Hope to do. But it is really about so much more. It’s about spiritual lifestyle changes and God-directed giving. It is about growing in our faith, trusting God, and changing our hearts. It’s a journey of faith that can make a huge impact on your life.
How much will it cost?The estimated cost is $3,600,000 for the entire project, which includes current debt elimination, new building construction, and renovations to the existing building.
Why are we eliminating our existing debt?Over the past few years, New Hope has encouraged people to eliminate debt in their personal lives. We feel the church should be no different. Not having monthly payments allows us to expand ministries.
Why do we need a multipurpose building and how will it be used?From January to July of this year we have had 72 people join, 28 people baptized, and our attendance has increased significantly over the last several years. We need more space. There are no more rooms available for additional Bible Study classes. Our high school and middle school students are meeting in the gym, and they have to set up and tear down stages and move equipment every Sunday. The new addition will allow the Student Ministry to have a consistent arena with a 200-300 seat auditorium, as well as host special events, weddings and outside activities. This will make it easier to schedule sports activities in the gym. The added classrooms around the smaller auditorium will allow for additional adult and student classes. Presently, we are out of space for more classrooms in all areas.
Is this an expansion to our existing building or a stand alone new building?The plan is for an expansion of our existing facility. It will be a two story structure that connects at the end of the hallway by the gym. The women’s restroom by the gym will be relocated and that space will become a hallway to the multi-purpose building. Upstairs it will connect at the end of the hallway going into Room 200.
What improvements need to be made on our existing facility?We have been in this facility for 10 years, and as with any building there are always renovations and improvements that need to be made. The plans include installing a new sound system and adding additional stage lighting in the Worship Center, enlarging our parking lot, and other items that have yet to be determined.
What else will the funds raised be used for?Besides the elimination of debt, the new building construction, and renovations to the existing building, money may also be used to ensure our current ministries continue with excellence.
Why did we hire a consultant to help us raise funds?A capital stewardship campaign is a large endeavor that requires expertise and a time commitment we do not have available internally. So, we have hired Gary Ealy with Generis. Gary helped us with the last campaign to construct this facility. He has successfully worked with over a hundred and fifty churches and has helped them raise millions of dollars. His focus is not just to raise money, but to see change in the hearts of God’s people and for God to be honored through our faithfulness.
Why don’t we just borrow the money we need?The leaders of New Hope believe that becoming a debt free church is biblical and a testimony to the community. Being debt free also means freeing up money to better accomplish our vision. In essence, if we don’t have monthly notes to pay, we have more money for expanded ministry to take place.
In these challenging economic times, is wise to start such a project?After praying for three years, the leadership believes that God is leading us in this direction at this time. It is in these God-sized opportunities when we realize that it is not about what we can accomplish, but what God can do.
Will the mortgage on our existing facility have to be paid off first?No. As funds come in we will begin preliminary work on the new building, such as developing architect plans and fees. It is our desire to complete all phases debt free.
When will construction start on the new building and how long will it take to complete?
Estimated construction dates have not been determined. It all depends on when funds become available. Our desire is to start as soon as possible. It will take approximately 18 months after construction begins.
When will the improvements begin on our existing building?They will begin when we see that enough money has come in to complete the other phases first.
Is there a priority list?The priority is to pay off our existing debt while working on building plans and beginning construction. Improvements to the existing facility will follow that.
How will we get the money to pay for all of this?We’re asking each family to make a commitment over and above their regular giving for a three year period as God directs them. It may require giving up something or making a sacrificial gift. That will mean something different to each of us. Begin praying about what that might mean to you and your family.
What is sacrificial giving?Sacrificial giving means a level of stewardship above and beyond our regular commitment to God of our tithes and offerings for our general fund and missions. It will require reassessing our spending, our lifestyle, and readjusting our priorities to meet God’s call on our lives. It will cost us as givers, but through faith God will enable us to carry out the commitment He has laid on each of our hearts. It is “not equal gifts, but equal sacrifice.” In 2 Samuel 24: 24 David says,
“I will not offer as a sacrifice to God that which costs me nothing.”
What is “Not equal gifts, but equal sacrifice?”“Not equal gifts, but equal sacrifice” means that each of us will not give the same amount, but we all will give up something of real value and present that sacrifice to God. It is the start of a journey that must be spiritually motivated from within each heart.
Is this in place of my regular tithes and offerings?No. This giving is over and above your regular giving. Our current ministries still need to continue with excellence and we still have monthly bills to pay.
What if we don’t raise enough money to compete all of the plans?We believe that God will be faithful and provide for His plans to be accomplished. We will rely on God to guide us to use the funds wisely.
When will I be asked to make a commitment, and is it kept confidential?Our hope is that you will decide to make your three year commitment on Sunday, November 14 during a special Commitment Service. Then on Sunday, November 21 we will announce the total at our Celebration Service. And yes, your commitment is kept confidential within our Financial Office.
Will I be billed for my commitment?No. We will never bill you or call you about your commitment. We will send statements periodically so you can track your progress.
When can I start giving toward my commitment?
You can start giving as soon as you would like, but we have a special Sunday planned on December 5 for you to give your first “Legacy” offering. We will also send you separate “Legacy” envelopes to use during the three year period of the campaign. When writing a check, just make sure you write “Legacy” in the memo.
Can assests other than cash be contributed?Yes. Many times major gifts in the form of investment securities, real estate or other assets are committed in a campaign like ours. In fact, you may benefit from favorable tax treatment for the contribution of appreciable assets. Check with your taxconsultant regarding your specific situation. A very helpful brochure entitled, “How to Make an Over and Above Gift to My Church” is available at the Ministry Center.
Can my commitment be changed during the three years?Yes. Sometimes, unexpected circumstances happen in life, and you may need to adjust your commitment or even add to it. Remember though, God is faithful and will provide.
What can I do to help?•Make prayer your number one priority. Pray for God’s guidance as you determine your gift. Pray as a family and individually that you would be faithful on this journey. Pray for New Hope as God continues to use each of us for His purpose.
•Step forward and participate when asked to help.
•When making a commitment, have faith that God will direct and provide.
•Catch the vision. This is an exciting time for New Hope. Together we can celebrate what God can accomplish through His people.
Who will benefit from this campaign?We all will benefit from the improvements on our existing building and the new multi-purpose expansion. And with our debt paid off we will be able to expand ministries for all ages. But we can’t just look at the present and how we will benefit, we have to look to the future. Just as thousands of others left
a legacy for us, we must
leave a legacy of faith
for the generations
to come.
If you have a question, please send and email here or contact one of the Steering Committee Leaders listed below.
Steering Committee Leaders
Scott Greer — Senior Minister
Arnie Wexler — Executive Director
Tommy Earl — Campaign Manager
Doyal Brown & Rob Ratliff — Pacesetter Campaign Directors
Ethan Randall — Challenge Coordinator
Steve & Kim Dickerson — Response Event Coordinator
Greg & Maggie Cabot — Meals Coordinators
Lynn Wall — Special Gifts Coordinator
Steve & Carla Sisson — Major Gifts Coordinators
David Smith — Spiritual Awareness Director
Tina Braswell — Awareness Coordinator
Kenny Ratliff — Building Coordinator
Bonnie Walters, Bonnie Harker & Stephanie Luff — Prayer Coordinators
Terry Hatfield — Stewardship Education Coordinator
Lana Robison — Communication Director
Sarah Austin — Print Coordinator
Brad Ratliff & Phillip & Rita Resuggan — Audio/Visual Coordinators
Dan Taylor — Electronic Media Coordinator
Andrew Raymond — Youth Director
Mischa Butle — High School Youth Coordinator
Tommy Faulkner — Middle School Youth Coordinator
Sheri Randall & Shelley Parks — Children’s Directors
Dewey Dillard & Kent Long — 1st-5th Grade Coordinators
Lisa Aven — 3 year old-Kindergarten Coordinator
Sarah Antonio — Child Care Coordinator
Ari Morris & John Eason — Celebration Event Directors
David Tillman — Program Coordinator
Pat Bartley — Administrative Director
John & June Wyatt & Jill & Wilma Morris — Mailing Coordinators
Peggie Coy Chapman & Maria Dickson — Telephone Coordinators
Frances Ely — Involvement Coordinator
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Ministries 
