An update on a home for St. Pete’s
During our Annual Vestry Meeting in March, Grady and I preemptively addressed a question that has been asked at almost every AVM: “Are we going to look for a different home for St. Pete’s?” In addressing this question, we did not offer a definitive answer; instead, we sought to highlight the reality before us. Robson Square has been wonderful hosts to us over the past 13 years, but we're facing a few significant challenges, including a need for more midweek spaces and a high financial cost. In addressing this question, we did not make a decision on whether we would be seeking a new space; instead, expressed an openness and cautious excitement from the staff and council towards the possibility of moving to a different venue. Most importantly, we long to follow God wherever he will lead.
It has been about 6 months since we first shared this with you, so we thought it important to answer any questions that have arisen and to continue to invite you to pray with us.
Below are a few answers to some questions we have heard over the past few months. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.
1) Are we putting together a search team?
We have intentionally chosen not to form a search committee at this time. We believe that would be to put the cart ahead of the horse; at this time we are still prayerfully discerning what God’s will is. It may be possible that it is God’s desire for us to remain right where we are and to address these challenges in different and creative ways.
2) Has there been any progress?
Though we have not put together a committee to search for a new home, there have been two potential opportunities that we are cautiously exploring through preliminary conversations. These opportunities have come up very naturally, and we are patiently exploring what they would look like and if we believe they are where God is leading us.
3) What can I do?
First and most importantly, we ask you to commit to praying about this regularly. We will be adding this to our rotation during prayers of the people, and we invite you to pray about it daily; pray about it in your community groups, with your family or as part of the daily offices. As the Psalmist says, “Unless the lord builds this house, those who labour build in vain.”
Second, we are open to hearing about other opportunities — if you hear about a location that you think would be a good opportunity for us, reach out to Phill or Grady, and we will explore the opportunity alongside the council.
We are committed to keeping the lines of communication open with you, so when we learn more about these opportunities, or if we feel God has revealed a direction to us, we will share this with you, our church family.
If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Grady or me; we would love to hear from you.
Grace and Peace,
Phill Pearson | Associate Minister
