Sharing in God’s Kingdom Legacy

We give praise and thanks to God for His gracious work in building up His Church in Dover. For nearly fifty years, He has richly blessed Grace Church—growing it in many ways and drawing people together across dividing lines into unified worship.


Among these blessings are the resources He has provided, including a wonderful facility and land that allow for continued expansion. He has also given gifted and capable members to lead a building project as the congregation continues to grow.


As Grace enters its next season of ministry, the Lord has given its leadership a vision for continued healthy growth. This includes expanding and renovating our facilities so that the entire congregation can gather for worship, establishing a dedicated space for discipleship and education, and strengthening our presence in the community—offering care, support, and a welcoming place to gather, all for the sake of the gospel.


Legacy Building and Celebration Timeline of Events

  • April 2023 - Discussion begins about the church’s 50th year anniversary celebration in 2028
  • June 2023 - Session approves to begin putting aside funds for a 50th year anniversary celebration
  • July 2024 - Pastoral Staff tasked by Session to explore the possibility of a building project
  • February 2025 Session approves initial plan for 50th year anniversary celebration including a building project
  • March 2025 - Bernie Langer appointed as chairman of a committee to be formed for the 50th year anniversary celebration and building project
  • July 2025 - The Legacy Building Committee is formed and approved by the Session and First church-wide letter “Building God’s Legacy 1”
  • August 2025 - LB Committee begins meeting as 4 sub-committees: Construction, Fundraising, Events, and Prayer
  • January 2026 - Second church-wide letter “Building God’s Legacy 2”
  • February 2026 - The Session decides to make a new Sanctuary the first phase of the building project. The 50th anniversary celebration and building project is officially titled “Legacy Building and Celebration.” The Legacy Building and Celebration slogan officially becomes “Inspired by Grace, Building for Generations”
  • March 2026 - Church-wide Informational Meeting
  • April 2026 - Initial land surveys and site plan work begins
  • May 2026 - Grace-Filled Vision Dinner and start of a 3-year pledge fundraising
    • Can I change my pledge later?

      Yes. Your pledge is not a binding contract. We encourage you to prayerfully consider what you are able to give as the Lord leads you to give freely and cheerfully. If your circumstances change over the next 3 years, you may adjust your pledge amount at any time by submitting an updated pledge and noting the changes you have made.

    • What if I can only give once?

      That is perfectly fine. You may contribute one time or as frequently as you would like by spreading your giving over the 3-year campaign.

    • Should I still submit a pledge if my contribution is small?

      Absolutely. Every contribution matters. The emphasis of this initiative is not the size of the gift, but the opportunity for us to join together in the work God is doing through our church. Whatever amount you are able to give, we encourage you to submit a pledge and be encouraged that the Lord blesses the faithful generosity of His people.

    • Can I direct my regular tithes and offerings to the Legacy Building Fund?

      No. Our regular tithes and offerings support the church’s operating budget, including staff salaries, missions, ministry programs, building maintenance, and other expenses. The Legacy Building Initiative is intended to be above and beyond our regular giving so that the regular ministry of Grace Church can continue to thrive.

    • Do you accept non-cash contributions?

      Yes. You can support this building initiative through other contributions like stocks, digital currency, and real estate.

    • What are the best ways to give contributions?

      If you qualify, you can maximize your contributions by directing your giving through a Donor Advised Fund (DAF), Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD), or Estate Planning.

    • What are we building?

      Our initial goal is to build a new sanctuary. We hope to raise approximately $3.7–$4.5 million over the next 3 years toward this project. While that is a significant amount, we trust that God is able to provide through the generosity of His people

    • What if we do not raise enough money?

      The Session and Legacy Building Committee will periodically review our progress toward the goal. During the 3-year period, if it seems unlikely that we will be able to raise sufficient funds, we will communicate openly with the congregation and seek the Lord’s guidance together regarding next steps, additional fundraising, or other options.

    • Will the church take out a loan?

      Yes and no. During the construction process, the church will most likely need to obtain a construction or bridge loan to cover project costs as they are incurred. Our goal is to raise enough funds to pay off all construction-related costs by the completion of the project. If we are successful in doing so, no long-term mortgage loan will be necessary. If additional funds still need to be raised after construction is complete, the Session will evaluate the remaining balance, determine the appropriate loan amount, and present a recommendation to the congregation. Any long-term borrowing would require approval by the congregation at a subsequent congregational meeting.

    • Do we need the funds now?

      Yes. Construction costs continue to rise over time. The longer we delay raising the necessary funds, the greater the cost of the project may become. Early participation helps us move forward more effectively and responsibly.

    • What if I cannot begin giving until later?

      That is completely understandable. Even if you plan to begin contributing at a later date, we encourage you to submit your pledge now. Knowing your intended commitment helps the committee assess our progress and plan responsibly for the future.


    Legacy Building & Celebration

    In 2028, Grace Church will celebrate 50 years of God's faithfulness and grace. We rejoice in the opportunity He has given us to build on His legacy and continue advancing His kingdom in Dover through a new building expansion initiative.