Pastor’s eNote: Building Update

FFMC Leadership Team: Building Update

The Leadership Team of FFMC recently shared with the congregation that plans for moving North Queen Anne Childcare (NQACC) into the Fine Center were on “pause” for the time being.

At its November 6, 2024, meeting the Leadership Team unanimously voted to terminate the project to relocate NQACC into the Fine Center. Here is some of the rationale for this decision:
· The estimated costs for this relocation were between $9 Million and $20 Million dollars. Even at the lowest possible costs, the proposal was beyond the combined fiscal ability of FFMC and NQACC.
· The congregation would be displaced from its fellowship space, offices, and youth ministry areas indefinitely.
· The newly vacated Wilson Building would still be in a state of disrepair with additional costs beyond those of relocating NQACC into the Fine Center.

The work of the Leadership Team, Facility Team, and Finance Team is far from done. We are now focused on a comprehensive review of our facilities and ministries which will sustain and strengthen our church’s witness well into the future. The staggering costs of facility improvements mean that we will need to look toward creative solutions. Your prayers for wisdom and discernment are deeply valued as we move forward.

Know that the Leadership Team holds the existing congregation at FFMC as its highest priority. Our church’s 144-year legacy in Seattle must be cared for today and expanded in the future. Should you have any questions, please send them to [email protected]. We are thankful to be serving the Lord through this effort and are very hopeful for what will emerge in the days to come.

Grace in abundance,

Rev. Dr. Craig S. Brown, Lead Pastor
Diann Barry, Leadership Team, Chairperson
(11/15/2024)