What Would You Like to Know?

We’ve been building churches and related facilities for decades. Over the years, we’ve discovered that we often hear the same questions from church leaders and committees that are considering building projects. We’ve included some of the most common here. If you don’t see your question, please share it with us.

Can we afford to build?

That's never an easy one to answer, but it's the most important question you can ask. Beginning a building project without being completely sure you can afford it is a recipe for disaster. Sometimes, enthusiasm and confidence motivate church leaders to start a project before they have a clear idea of funding based upon their faith the money will arrive in time, and when that doesn't happen, it can do serious damage to the congregation's morale and viability.

We recommend beginning the building process with a thoughtful plan that details the goals and scope of the project, includes realistic budgets for every aspect, and specifies how funding will be secured. Our team has extensive experience at helping churches like yours develop those plans.

Can we start now and finish the project when we have funds?

Enthusiasm and confidence often motivate church leaders to start a project before they have a clear idea of funding based upon their faith the money will arrive in time, and when that doesn’t happen, it can do serious damage to the congregation’s morale and viability.

We recommend beginning the building process with a thoughtful plan that details the goals and scope of the project, includes realistic budgets for every aspect, and specifies how funding will be secured. Our team has extensive experience at helping churches like yours develop those plans.

Should we hire an architect first?

Traditionally, churches have begun building projects by hiring (and paying) an architect to develop plans, and then inviting contractors to bid on the project based on those plans. All too often, the cost to build the architect’s vision is much higher than expected, or the design creates practical issues that will be difficult to construct. That may mean the church is left with a beautiful set of plans that cannot be executed as designed.

That’s why we prefer the Design-Build method of delivery, which simplifies the construction process and reduces your risks. Your church has a single contract with Eden that covers all aspects of design and construction. We hire and coordinate the architect, engineer, and construction team on your behalf. We’re responsible for managing the project budget and collaborating to keep your costs under control. From the beginning, everything is based upon what’s realistic and attainable.

Is it acceptable to go into debt to build?

Just as most families cannot afford a home without taking out a mortgage loan, most churches find it difficult to build without financing at least part of the cost. Still, many church leaders are hesitant to go into debt to build a new church or other needed facility. Some even view debt as sinful. But in most cases, a thoughtful approach to using some debt will make it easier to build the new facility. Think of that financing as an investment in the future growth of your congregation and its missions. If your congregation is growing, but your sanctuary lacks the room to hold everyone, you may be turning away new members. A larger sanctuary will encourage more people to attend services and support the church through tithing and offerings.

We’ve developed a network of trusted sources who can assist with all aspects of funding, from creating effective building campaigns, to exploring grant opportunities, to securing short- and long-term financing. We’ll help you identify the type and sources of funding that best address your needs.

Will you work with members who want to donate labor in-kind?

We’re often asked to use a subcontractor who is a member of a congregation or otherwise has close ties with a church. In some cases, those subcontractors offer to “donate” their help by working at what they say is a reduced rate.

We are always willing to work with local subcontractors who share our commitment to safety and quality, and we welcome your recommendations. In the case of subcontractors who offer to participate in the project at some kind of discount, we ask them to define both their bids and what they intend to give in-kind so we can help you make a fair decision. (Frankly, we often find that even with the “gift in kind,” their bids are higher than those of other bidders.)

Will you work with our local government?

Our team, which includes our professionals, the architect, and the engineer, will be happy to represent your church before plan commissions and other local government boards that must review and approve your project. Our team has extensive experience at presenting and drawing support for proposed projects, and we work closely with local government officials to ensure we understand and address any standards or concerns they may have.

Do you do smaller projects such as additions?

Absolutely! We’ve handled many church additions and projects that have added spaces for social gatherings, classes, meetings, sports activities, and the like. See several of our projects here.