New Creation Possibility

Word is spreading about the possibility of buying out the New Creation UMC property. We need to be sensitive to our brothers and sisters of New Creation as they struggle with a decision to continue. Here is some background information:
  • Salem leaders participated in a conversation November 13, 2008 with New Creation and several other UM congregations. New Creation said their budget was in crisis and they couldn't pay their mortgage.
  • At Annual Conference in June, their pastor suggested we have a conversation about Salem's interest in their property.
  • I spoke with their pastor on July 25, 2009 about their situation as well as Salem's. New Creation has asked for a "viability study" to see if they should continue. They are pushing ahead, but if things don't change by Christmas they will be out of money.
  • The New Creation building is located next to Target at Westdale mall. It is 4,000 sq. ft. and sits on 8.5 acres.
  • It could be a short-term stepping-stone or a permanent location. There is plenty of room for expansion and several plans have already been drawn up.
  • It would be the fastest way to get into our own place. While space and expansion would be issues, it is already large enough for our worship gatherings.
At this point this is just talk. Before it is appropriate for Salem to make any decisions in this matter, New Creation must first decide whether they will continue as a congregation and if so whether they will remain connected to the property. This must be a difficult time for New Creation. We went down a similar path with our new church start in Des Moines, Colony 320. Our prayers are with our brothers and sisters of New Creation.

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