Steady Progress on Our Renovation Project

September brought continued progress on Bethel Presbyterian Church’s renovation project. Throughout the month, construction crews advanced mechanical, electrical, and plumbing work, strengthened structural elements, and prepared exterior openings for upcoming concrete work.

As the project moves forward, we are beginning to see more clearly how the renovated spaces are taking shape. Behind the scenes, important work is also underway to prepare the building for the systems and improvements that will support Bethel’s ministries for years to come.

September Construction Highlights

Basement and Structural Work

The basement CMU walls were waterproofed, providing an important step in protecting the renovated space. Structural studs were installed at the mezzanines, and additional joists and hangers were added to bring these areas into compliance with code requirements.

Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Systems

Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing work continued throughout September. HVAC ductwork and rough-in installations progressed, plumbing rough-in work began, and electricians returned to the site. Temporary thermostats were also installed as work on the building’s mechanical systems continued.

These systems are essential to making the renovated spaces functional, comfortable, and ready for future use.

Interior Openings and Preparation

Crews cut new openings in existing walls and installed temporary protection where needed. This work supports the next stages of the renovation and helps prepare the building for continued construction.

Exterior and Site Preparation

Trees were cleared near the HVAC pad, and exterior openings were prepared for site concrete. By the September 25 report, the openings were ready for the next phase of concrete work, which was scheduled to begin the following week.

Looking Ahead

As September came to a close, the construction team was preparing to:

• Continue mechanical, electrical, and plumbing rough-in work.
• Advance plans for framing the gym firewall, pending resolution of a request for information (RFI).
• Begin forming and pouring exterior site concrete.
• Continue coordinating the next phases of construction.

The schedule remained under review, with project delays being tracked in the weekly reports.

Safety and Project Coordination

Safety remained a positive part of the September updates, with no reported construction accidents in any of the three weekly reports.

Barringer Construction continued coordinating project activities through its regular owner-architect-contractor (OAC) meetings.

Moving Forward Together

Every phase of construction brings us closer to the vision behind Growing in Faith: creating spaces that better serve our congregation, strengthen our ministries, and welcome future generations.

We are grateful for the work of Barringer Construction, the project team, and everyone who continues to support this important undertaking through prayer, generosity, and encouragement.

Thank you for being part of Bethel’s Growing in Faith journey.

A Grateful Update from Bethel Presbyterian Church

Financial Update — As of September 30, 2026

As we continue our Growing in Faith journey, we once again begin with a simple word:

Thank you.

Thank you for your prayers, your generosity, your encouragement, and your continued commitment to the future of Bethel Presbyterian Church.

Over the past several months, we have watched a vision begin to take physical shape. Construction is underway, and with each passing week, we are reminded that Growing in Faith is about much more than a building project.

It is about creating places where children can grow in faith, families can gather, people can worship, and Bethel can continue serving our community for generations to come.

Where We Are

Our current project goal is $15 million, and together our congregation has made $7,707,951 in pledges toward that goal.

As of September 30, 2026, here is where we stand:

• Total Pledges: $7,707,951.00
• Pledge Payments Received: $3,071,452.88
• Uncollected Pledges: $4,636,498.12
• Cash Collected, Including Interest: $4,241,722.73
• Unspent Cash: $2,976,471.05
• Building Costs to Date: $1,265,251.68

These numbers represent the generosity and commitment of our congregation and help us see how our giving is supporting the work now underway.

Looking Ahead

As construction continues and we move toward the end of 2026, we invite everyone to continue this journey in whatever way is appropriate for their circumstances.

For those who are able, continuing to make payments toward your pledge before the end of the year can be especially helpful as construction progresses.

At the same time, we recognize that everyone’s circumstances are different.

Some have already fulfilled their commitment. Others are continuing to make payments. Some may be in a season of life when additional giving isn’t possible.

And that is okay.

There is no guilt, no pressure, and no judgment. We are grateful for every person’s participation and for the many ways people support the life and ministry of Bethel.

Whether through giving, prayer, service, encouragement, or simply being part of our church family, you are part of Growing in Faith.

The Difference Your Generosity Makes

Every dollar given toward this project serves a larger purpose.

It helps create spaces where children can learn about God’s love. It provides opportunities for fellowship and community. It gives our ministries room to grow and provides a place where future generations can worship, learn, serve, and grow together.

As we shared last month, the campaign team estimates that receiving an additional $1 million in outstanding pledges before the end of 2026 could reduce interest costs by approximately $7,000 per month.

Reducing interest expense allows more of our resources to remain available for the ministry and mission of Bethel.

But the most important measure of this campaign isn’t a number.

It is the people who will walk through these doors.

The children who will grow here.

The families who will gather here.

The people who will worship here.

The lives that will be touched here.

That is what we are building for.

Growing in Faith — Together

As we look at the progress made so far, we are grateful for what God is doing through the people of Bethel.

There is still work ahead, but there is also much to celebrate.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Thank you for helping make this vision possible. And thank you for helping Bethel continue to Grow in Faith—together.

Since Our Last Update

Since our August 31 update, pledge payments have increased by $117,323.51, bringing total pledge payments received to more than $3.07 million.

Building costs have also continued to move forward as construction progresses, increasing by $178,587.27 during September.

These changes reflect both the continued generosity of our congregation and the progress being made on the project itself.

We are grateful for every gift, every pledge payment, every prayer, and every person who continues to be part of Growing in Faith.

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.”
— Proverbs 16:3

All figures are subject to change as construction costs and project expenses are finalized.

A Grateful Update from Bethel Presbyterian Church

Financial Update — As of August 31, 2026

As we continue our Growing in Faith journey, we want to begin with one simple word:

Thank you.

Thank you for your prayers. Thank you for your generosity. Thank you for your encouragement. And thank you for believing in the future of Bethel Presbyterian Church.

What began as a vision is now becoming something we can see taking shape. As construction progresses, we are reminded that this project is about much more than buildings. It is about creating places where children can grow in faith, families can gather, people can worship, and Bethel can continue serving our community for generations to come.

Where We Are

Our current project goal is $15 million, and together our congregation has made $7,707,951 in pledges toward that goal.

The following figures are as of August 31, 2026:

• Pledged Contributions Received: $2,954,129.37
• Cash Received: $1,077,794.26
• Remaining Pledges: $4,753,821.63
• Construction Costs to Date: $1,086,664.41

We share these numbers because we believe our congregation deserves to know where we are and how the generosity of so many people is helping move the project forward.

Looking Ahead

As we move through the remainder of 2026, we simply invite everyone to continue this journey in whatever way is appropriate for their circumstances.

For those who are able, making payments toward your pledge before the end of the year can be especially helpful as construction continues.

But we also understand that everyone’s circumstances are different.

Some have already fulfilled their commitment. Others are continuing to make payments. Some may be in a season of life when additional giving isn’t possible.

And that is okay.

There is no guilt, no pressure, and no judgment. We are grateful for every person’s participation and for the many different ways people support the life and ministry of Bethel.

Whether through giving, prayer, service, encouragement, or simply being part of our church family, you are part of Growing in Faith.

The Difference Your Generosity Makes

Every dollar given toward this project ultimately serves a larger purpose.

It helps provide spaces where children can learn about God’s love. It creates opportunities for fellowship and community. It gives our ministries room to grow and provides a place where future generations can worship and serve.

The campaign team has estimated that receiving an additional $1 million in outstanding pledges before the end of 2026 could reduce interest costs by approximately $7,000 per month. Any savings in interest can help preserve resources for the ministry and mission of Bethel.

But the most important measure of this campaign isn’t a number.

It is the people who will walk through these doors.

The children who will grow here.

The families who will gather here.

The lives that will be touched here.

That is what we are building for.

Thank you for being part of this journey and for helping Bethel continue to Grow in Faith—together.

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.”
— Proverbs 16:3

All figures are subject to change as construction costs and project expenses are finalized.

You Can’t See It on Sunday—But It’s Happening

If you’ve wondered what’s happening with the Growing in Faith building project, we’re excited to give you a glimpse of Behind the Walls.

Much of the construction is taking place in and below the gymnasium, where the future Children’s Ministry Wing is being developed. Because this is an active construction area, access is restricted for everyone’s safety. That means most of us can’t walk through space and see progress firsthand.

But there is a lot happening.

Construction Is Moving Forward

Framing is complete in areas of the project, and fireproofing and door-support work are underway. Site preparation continues as crews prepare the building for the next stages of construction.

Although these changes may not be visible to the congregation, they represent important steps toward transforming the areas in and below the gymnasium into the future Children’s Ministry Wing.

A Look Behind the Walls

The photographs accompanying this update provide a rare look inside the construction area.

What may appear to be an open room, exposed concrete, pipes, structural elements, and construction materials is actually the beginning of a significant transformation.

The work being done now is preparing the building for the classrooms, ministry spaces, gathering areas, and other improvements that will serve Bethel for years to come.

See More Construction Photos

We’ve created a Growing in Faith Photo Gallery where you can see additional photographs from the construction project and follow the transformation as it continues.

View the Growing in Faith Photo Gallery

We’ll continue adding photographs to the gallery as new milestones are reached.

Important Work Is Taking Place Behind the Scenes

Several important developments have occurred since our last Build Team update.

Steel Has Been Released

Because of long lead times, steel has been released to ARC. The remaining Phase 2 scope is also being repriced based on updated county permit comments and civil drawings.

Civil Drawings Have Been Submitted

The civil drawings have now been submitted to the county, beginning the anticipated three-month plan-review process.

Transformer Application Has Been Submitted

The formal application for the new transformer has been submitted, and the team is awaiting the utility’s response. Transformer relocation is an important milestone because Phase 2 demolition cannot begin until the transformer is relocated and the new preschool building is re-energized.

Good News on Water Pressure

A field test at the kitchen hose bib showed 80 PSI, which was an encouraging result. Additional testing is still being planned before a final determination is made regarding the water line.

Looking for Responsible Savings

The Build Team continues to look for opportunities to reduce project costs while maintaining the goals of the project.

One example involves the HVAC design in the youth, stage, and storage areas. Barringer has proposed eliminating dedicated ductwork and utilizing the gym’s existing units instead. 

Phase 1 Schedule

One of the most encouraging developments is that Phase 1 remains on track for a December 30 turnover, followed by a short move-in period.

This Is Just the Beginning

There is still much work ahead, but the Growing in Faith project continues to move forward.

Some of the most important work happening right now isn’t something we can see on Sunday morning. It is happening behind closed doors—in the walls, beneath the floors, and throughout the infrastructure of the building.

As construction progresses, we will continue sharing photographs, project updates, and explanations of what is happening so that our entire church family can follow the journey.

Visit the Growing in Faith Photo Gallery often to see the latest photographs from behind the walls.

Visit the Growing in Faith Photo Gallery

The work may be happening behind the walls, but the vision for the future of Bethel is very much alive.

Thank you for your continued prayers, generosity, patience, and encouragement.

“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine…”
Ephesians 3:20

Construction Is Moving Forward!

There is a lot happening at Bethel as the Growing in Faith project continues to take shape. Construction is moving forward, and while much of the work happens behind the scenes, we are beginning to see more visible progress on campus.

The Childrens Ministry Wing.is one of the busiest areas right now. Fireproofing is underway, and framing has begun as the project moves into another important stage.  Leak repair at the window well is underway. The team has also finalized the shoring and bracing plans for the Family Life Center wall, allowing work to continue toward the next phase of demolition and construction.

At the same time, the project team continues to work through the many details that come with a project of this size, including structural work, electrical needs, water pressure, permitting and inspections. These may not always be things we notice as we walk by the construction site, but they are important steps in keeping the project moving forward.

Sanctuary Work Takes Shape

Several sanctuary details have also been finalized. The new sanctuary windows will feature traditional framed openings with individual pieces of glass, giving the renovated sanctuary the character and appearance envisioned in the design.

The existing stained-glass window will be relocated to the AV booth wall, while the front sanctuary opening will receive a new clear window. A custom light-box design has also been finalized for the new window.

These details may seem small compared with the overall project, but they are the pieces that will eventually make the renovated spaces feel like Bethel.

Children’s Ministry and Playground

Planning continues for the new Children’s Ministry areas and playground. The project team is working through the final details of the playground, including fencing, access and equipment.

Security and access are also receiving careful attention, particularly in the Children’s Ministry areas. The goal is to create spaces that are welcoming for children and families while also providing the safety and security our congregation expects.

Looking Ahead

The team is also working toward having the Gym available for the December 12  Christmas Bazaar, pending the necessary inspections and approvals.

Meanwhile, work continues on the electrical infrastructure that will support the expanded campus. The transformer relocation and switchover are being coordinated for later this year, with the project team working to minimize disruption to church activities.

Good Stewardship Along the Way

As construction continues, the Building Team and our project partners are continually looking for ways to make responsible decisions and control costs without compromising the ministry needs of the project.

Not every decision is about building something bigger or adding something new. Some of the most important decisions are about finding the right balance between cost, function and long-term value.

That is an important part of Growing in Faith. We are not simply building new spaces—we are investing in places where children will learn, families will gather, worship will take place and Bethel’s ministries will continue to grow for years to come.

Thank You

Thank you for your continued prayers, generosity and patience as this work continues. We know construction can sometimes bring inconvenience and questions, but we also know that what we are building represents an exciting opportunity for Bethel’s future.

We are Growing in Faith together—and each step brings us closer to seeing that vision become a reality.

Building Today for Generations Tomorrow

Because of your faithful prayers and generous giving, the Growing in Faith Campaign continues to make tremendous progress. Construction is underway, and together we are investing in spaces that will serve our congregation and community for generations to come.

Campaign at a Glance

• Campaign Goal: $15,000,000
• Total Pledges: $7,707,951
• Outstanding Pledges: $4,932,409
• Pledged Contributions Received: $2,775,542
• Unpledged Contributions Received: $944,973
• Total Contributions Received: $3,720,515
• Construction Costs Paid to Date: $850,983

To date, we have received 24.8% of our $15 million campaign goal, providing the resources needed to begin construction and move the project forward.

Let’s Finish Strong Together

Many members are faithfully fulfilling their Growing in Faith commitments over the three-year pledge period, and we are grateful for every gift—regardless of its timing or amount.

For those who are in a position to do so, we invite you to prayerfully consider completing all or part of your remaining pledge by December 31, 2026.

Receiving additional pledge payments before further borrowing is needed can significantly reduce future interest expenses. If $1 million in outstanding pledges is fulfilled by the end of 2026, Bethel could save approximately:

• $7,000 each month in interest costs
• More than $84,000 each year

Those savings remain available for ministry instead of interest payments, allowing more resources to support worship, discipleship, children’s ministry, youth ministry, missions, and community outreach.

How You Can Help

• Pray for our church, our leaders, and the construction team.
• Continue fulfilling your pledge according to your commitment.
• Consider completing your pledge early, if your circumstances allow, to help reduce borrowing costs and maximize ministry resources.

Thank You

Thank you for your continued faithfulness, generosity, and prayers. Every gift is making a lasting impact.

Together, we are building more than a building—we are creating a lasting legacy of faith where future generations will worship, learn, serve, and grow in Christ.

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.”
Proverbs 16:3

Building for the Future

Exciting progress continues as we move forward with the Growing in Faith renovation project. Each week brings visible changes to our campus and moves us one step closer to creating spaces that will better serve children, youth, families, and future generations of ministry at Bethel.

Construction Progress

Several important milestones have recently been completed:

✅ Basement demolition has been completed.

✅ Existing carpet and vinyl floor tile have been removed.

🚧 Demolition of the first-floor stage is currently underway.

These efforts are preparing the building for the next phase of construction and creating the foundation for the new ministry spaces envisioned through Growing in Faith.

Looking Ahead

Over the coming weeks, our construction team will focus on:

• Framing in the lower level
• Plumbing fixture layout and coordination
• Cutting and removing sections of the existing slab for new plumbing lines
• Removal of abandoned chiller lines
• Continued framing and infrastructure work throughout the lower level

As construction advances, we will continue sharing updates and photos so that everyone can follow the transformation taking place across our campus.

Stewardship Update

Every gift and pledge payment continues to make a meaningful difference.

Faithful giving helps reduce the amount that must be borrowed and lowers future interest expenses, allowing more resources to be directed toward ministry rather than financing costs. We are grateful for the generosity and commitment of our congregation as we move through this important season together.

As construction progresses, we encourage everyone to prayerfully consider fulfilling their pledge commitment by the end of 2026 if possible. The timing of pledge payments is becoming increasingly important as the church begins utilizing construction financing.

Special Note:

If an additional $1 million in pledges were fulfilled before the end of 2026, Bethel could reduce future interest expenses by approximately $7,000 per month, allowing more resources to remain focused on ministry and mission.

Early fulfillment of pledges strengthens our financial position, reduces borrowing needs, and helps ensure that we are being faithful stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us.

Why This Matters

Growing in Faith is about more than construction. It is about creating spaces where children will learn about Jesus, youth will build lasting faith, families will gather in fellowship, and our congregation will continue serving the Lake Norman community for generations to come.

Every wall framed, every room renovated, and every dollar given is helping prepare Bethel for future ministry opportunities.

Prayer Focus

Please join us in praying for:

• The safety of all contractors, workers, and volunteers.
• Continued progress according to schedule.
• Wisdom for church leaders, staff, and project teams.
• Faithful stewardship of all resources entrusted to this project.
• The ministries and lives that will be impacted through these new and renovated spaces.

Thank you for your continued prayers, generosity, and support. Together, we are building not only for today, but for the generations who will call Bethel their church home in the years ahead.

“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us…” — Ephesians 3:20

The Growing in Faith campaign has received total pledges of $7,707,951. To date, congregation members have fulfilled $2,716,136 of those commitments, leaving $4,991,815 in remaining pledged contributions to be received over the coming months and years.

In addition to pledged giving, Bethel has received non-pledged contributions and interest earnings, bringing the church’s total cash receipts to $3,641,058.

Project Financial Position

As May 31st:

• Total Cash Collected (including interest): $3,641,058
• Building Costs Paid to Date: $724,027
• Unspent Cash Available: $2,917,030

The expenditures to date include architectural and engineering services, project management, permitting, planning, and other pre-construction costs necessary to move the project forward.

Looking Ahead

The strong financial position of the campaign continues to provide a solid foundation as construction progresses. Having nearly $2.9 million in available cash strengthens Bethel’s ability to fund future phases of the project while reducing the amount that may need to be financed.

As we prepare for future borrowing, every pledge payment received helps improve Bethel’s financial position. Early fulfillment of pledges can reduce borrowing costs, lower interest expenses, and allow more resources to remain focused on ministry, mission, and outreach.

We remain deeply grateful for the faithfulness and generosity of our congregation. Together, we are creating spaces that will support worship, discipleship, fellowship, and service for generations to come.

Thank you for your continued prayers, support, and commitment to the future of Bethel.

Dear Bethel Family,

Thank you for the incredible generosity, faithfulness, and commitment you have shown through our Growing in Faith campaign. Because of your prayers and support, construction is now underway! After years of prayer, planning, and discernment, it is exciting to see God bringing this vision to life.

We invite you to follow the journey through photos, videos, and updates on our Facebook page, Bethel Church LKN, and on this Growing in Faith page of our website. We look forward to celebrating each milestone with you.

As we look ahead to Phase Two, we invite everyone who has made a Growing in Faith pledge to prayerfully consider fulfilling all or a portion of that pledge earlier than originally planned, if possible. Contributions received before our construction loan begins can have a meaningful impact on the overall cost of the project.

After careful evaluation, Session approved Wesleyan Impact Partners as Bethel’s lending partner for Phase Two. One unique benefit of this partnership is that the amount of cash Bethel has on deposit when the loan closes directly impacts our interest rate. For example, a deposit of approximately $2 million could reduce our interest rate by as much as 1%, resulting in an estimated savings of $5,000–$7,000 each month in interest expenses. Those savings remain available for ministry, mission, discipleship, and outreach rather than financing costs.

Every additional pledge payment received before the loan closes strengthens Bethel’s financial position and helps reduce the overall cost of borrowing. If you are able, we invite you to consider making an early pledge payment. Gifts above pledged amounts are also always welcome and greatly appreciated. Every contribution helps maximize the impact of this investment in our church family and community.

Thank you again for your continued prayers, generosity, and faithful support. Together, we are building spaces where lives will be transformed through worship, discipleship, fellowship, and outreach for generations to come.

Grace and Peace,
The Growing in Faith Campaign Team

Exciting days are ahead at Bethel as we continue moving forward in faith together through our Growing in Faith campaign.

We are thrilled to announce that our Groundbreaking Celebration is tentatively scheduled for Sunday, June 21 immediately following the 10am Worship Service. This will be a special day in the life of our church as we celebrate God’s faithfulness and look ahead to the future ministry opportunities He is providing.

Phase 1 construction is set to begin on June 24, 2026, with completion expected by January 2027. Work is also progressing on plans for our playground improvements, with site work beginning in August and new and relocated playground equipment scheduled for September 2026.

At the same time, planning continues for Phase 2 renovations of the Sanctuary and Gathering Area, which are expected to begin in January 2027 and conclude in April 2028. Additional site planning is underway for drive lanes, dumpster relocation, signage, and final utility coordination.

The Build Team is carefully coordinating construction schedules around many important Bethel ministries and events, including Vacation Bible School, Trunk or Treat, Christmas services, Youth Chorus Camp, and homeschool activities, so ministry can continue strong throughout the process.

Thank you for your continued prayers, generosity, patience, and encouragement.