Question 1

Why are we doing this now?

Accepted Answer

This campaign has been developed through an extensive process involving our staff and governing board over the past couple of years. Several factors have converged to make this the right moment. Attendance at our services has reached the point where we cannot comfortably accommodate everyone who walks through our doors. South Carolina is one of the fastest-growing states in the nation, and our community is at the heart of that growth. God is actively bringing people to Sandhills, and with that comes a responsibility to make room for them. However, we are currently experiencing real limitations in parking and ministry space. These problems are affecting our ability to disciple the people God is sending to us today.

Question 2

How full are our services, and why does that matter?

Accepted Answer

A study of 711 churches found that growth stalls at just 57% of comfortable capacity (not 80%, as had been commonly assumed). At this threshold, longtime members still feel the room is fine, but first-time guests sense crowding and rarely return. Our per-service attendance regularly runs 65–88% of our 480-seat auditorium. We are not projecting a problem. We already have one.

Question 3

What exactly is the scope of the project?

Accepted Answer

The Make Room campaign addresses several areas of need. Sandhills currently owns 15 acres of land, roughly half of which has been developed. The primary work of the project includes a new 800+ seat auditorium, renovation of current auditorium into expanded student ministry space, upgrades and expansion of our children's ministry area, expanded opportunities for Adult Discipleship, additional parking, a multi-purpose gym, office space, and missionary furlough housing.

Question 4

Is this just about building a bigger building?

Accepted Answer

No. Our leadership is focused on our capacity to reach more people, disciple more families, and serve our community more effectively. Research and pastoral experience both confirm that church size and mission reach are connected in ways that matter. Larger congregations tend to reach more unchurched people, not because of size itself, but because of what size makes possible: expanded programming, a greater variety of entry points for people at different stages of faith, a culture that feels open rather than insular, and lower social pressure for people who are not yet ready to commit. The goal of Make Room is not a bigger building for its own sake, but more room for the people God is drawing to himself.

Question 5

How much are we trying to raise?

Accepted Answer

The Make Room campaign goal is expected to be approximately $32 million. This goal was established after prayerful discernment about what God wants to do through our collective generosity, evaluating the costs of the identified projects, and careful analysis of our congregation’s giving history.

Question 6

Is Sandhills in a healthy financial position to take this on?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our leadership has carefully evaluated our financial health before launching this campaign. Our regular giving is strong and consistent, our operating budget is healthy, and we have paid off our existing debt. We would not have launched this campaign if we did not believe the church was positioned to carry it well.

Question 7

How should I pray about my participation?

Accepted Answer

We encourage you to pray specifically and expectantly. Ask God to show you how you could grow your participation in His mission. We will distribute a Prayer and Devotion Guide to help you and your family walk through this process with intention.

Question 8

Where can I find out more information?

Accepted Answer

For the full FAQ sheet, click here.

2027 GROWTH CAMPAIGN

Leading MORE People to Live Christ-centered Lives

Why are we doing this now?

How full are our services, and why does that matter?

What exactly is the scope of the project?

Is this just about building a bigger building?

How much are we trying to raise?

Is Sandhills in a healthy financial position to take this on?

How should I pray about my participation?

Where can I find out more information?

Do you have any questions not answered above? Click here to submit a question.

Office Hours: M - Thurs 8:30 am to 5:00 pm

Adults

Kidz/Students

Next Steps

Outreach