New Building FAQ

First, to understand this decision, we encourage you to listen to Pastor Allen's sermon entitled MOVEMENT.

Why are we moving?

We believe our God-given ministry now calls for an exercise of faith and a new facility. We believe that Marin County is a unique place with national influence. We believe that the local church is the most important vehicle for Gospel-transformation in Marin County. Our mission is to be a church that plants other churches. A different facility is strategic in achieving this mission by serving as a central church that trains leaders.

Further, in six decades of ministry in Marin County, this facility has never accommodated more than 125 regular attenders. We see our current momentum allowing for further growth and a broader impact on Marin. Last, but not least, our Elders have prayed over this and believe this to be God’s calling for our church. As an act of obedience and faith, moving forward is the only option.

Do you know how big this decision is?

The magnitude of this decision lies heavily with our church leadership. As Allen has expressed: “this is a fly or die decision”. However, we believe that to live a life of faith in Jesus Christ often requires risk. Christians often appear to make illogical decisions because their actions fly in the face of cultural norms. Our decisions serve to glorify God, not man.

Where are we moving?

We don’t know, but we believe this congregation is called to serve Marin County. We do not foresee leaving Marin. Neither do we have a predetermined location. We will commission an advisory team to conduct research and help guide our Elders’ decisions. 

How long will the move take? 

We are just beginning the process. Researching the real estate market, potentially refitting an existing building and selling the current building may take months or longer. As we move through the process, we will communicate progress. 

How can we afford to move? 

It is hard to discern right now what financial challenges we will encounter. The Elders unanimously believe we are not being directed to take on great debt. Above all, we submit to and rely completely on the Holy Spirit for guidance and provision.

Is this the right time?

As mentioned in #1 there are pragmatic reasons to move now; However, waiting is justifiable. When we consider the history of God’s work on our church over the past 10 years, we believe that God has been preparing us for this time and is now prompting us to move forward. 

Do we have any building options left on this property?

After careful consideration, we do not believe we do. We have done what we can to optimize this property over the past 50 years. Of the 1.5 acres currently occupied by the church we only own about 0.8 acres. In previous decades, portions of the property encroached in the public road right-of-way. The County is likely to resist or deny any expansions efforts.

Is moving the only way we can reach Marin County?

We have not considered every possibility to revamp our ministry. We believe, with the gift mix of our pastor-elders, deacons, and this church family, that we have been equipped for this ministry. We believe that changing our ministry to stay here is honoring a building more than honoring God. 

Who will be on the advisory team? 

This has not been determined yet. The Elders will be praying for God’s guidance to provide the right gift mix to do this process well.

Who will make the final decision?

The Elders have been charged with the leadership of this church; therefore, the decision of how, when and where we move will lie with them. We are committed, however, to transparency throughout this process

Is something wrong which prompts this move?

This move is not being prompted as a reaction to circumstances. This is a step of faith and obedience to Jesus.

What will happen to the preschool?

We can’t know if our new facility will accommodate a preschool. We hope the preschool will remain a part of our ministry. However, it cannot be the determining factor in a new facility. With this uncertainty, we have suspended the search for a new director and Connie Berry will provide leadership for the foreseeable future.

How will we be kept up-to-date?

Pastor Allen has committed to regularly keeping this in front of us on Sunday mornings. We understand that without vision, things will fall apart quickly (Proverbs 29:18). However, Sunday is primarily about worshiping Jesus: the preaching of God's word; the singing of songs and hymns; and remembrance through the sacraments. Therefore, even a big issue like this should not monopolize our worship gatherings. Members of Anthem Church should be prepared to be kept informed via::

1. The City - We will use our online communication network to regularly communicate with members.
2. Meetings - While this method will be less frequent, our goal is to occasionally have member's meetings as larger milestones are reached.
3. Sunday Mornings - Last, we will communicate progress as each Sunday allows. What is shared on Sunday mornings largely depends on the sermon context. The majority of details will be communicated as outlined in #1 and #2.

Now, more than ever, is the time to consider membership to publicly affirm our mission and your commitment. 

What if I don’t feel good about this move?

We strongly encourage you to pray through this question. Many congregants have had years and even decades of memories attached to this place; this has been their church home. We understand that there may be some grief in the change. However, we do not believe that God would move us without a plan for every member of this congregation. If the prospect of moving causes you any distress, we encourage you to speak with one of our Elders or your Community Group leader. We hope God will grant us unity moving forward as a single family into a new adventure.

Please email any questions or concerns to Pastor Alan Greer.