John Louk

Now that we will definitely break ground and start work on a new building, it’s good to think about how the church is more than a building. When Salem's downtown building was destroyed in the flood of 2008, we knew that the church is not the building, it’s more than that. Likewise when we construct a new building, it’s good to acknowledge that the church is not the new building either. It’s more than that. Without a doubt, a building is a blessing, a gift, a tool. But the church is more than the building. This is important because we’re going to grow. When we break ground and build a new building, we’re going to see new people. We live in a culture that likes new things. And a new “church” is no exception. New people will come and be a part of Salem. In fact, we’re working intentionally to reach out to new people so that they will become a part of this wonderful congregation. We’re going to grow. Our goal, however is not just to have more people who are a part of Salem. R

At our Church Conference on April 1, we voted overwhelmingly, 68-6, to proceed with our building project, approving the entire plan at a cost of just over two million dollars. Then on April 21, we met with the District Building and Location Committee. They approved our project unanimously. Therefore, we are right now securing financing and the necessary legal paperwork.  We are going to break ground on Sunday, May 18 at 10:30 am between the worship services so everyone can participate. God is good! All the time! "When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream. Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then it was said among the nations, 'The Lord has done great things for them.' The Lord has done great things for us, and we rejoiced." Psalm 126:1-3