Crossing the Scioto...Time to Build

"Crossing the Scioto", is the term we use to define what we believe is God's call for Salem to build new ministry facilities just north of Chillicothe. Ministry is what this new facility is all about. It's not just about having more room for people to sit. It's about having a place where men, women, boys and girls of our community can find the love of Jesus Christ and celebrate God's presence through worship. Somewhere they can be a part of God's family in fellowship nurtured through discipleship. A place where they can express God's love through service and become equipped to communicate God's Word through evangelism.

We are ready, but are simply waiting for God's timing in the next step. Below you will find a brief summary of our journey to date.

Timeline of Events

• In the fall of 2000 during a leadership retreat, the Salem Council with agreement of all leadership and staff present, determined to purchase land for the construction of a new ministry facility. A long range planning committee was formed to search for the land God would provide.
  
• After a long search for property a 42 acre parcel was found on Seney Road, just off Route 23. In January of 2002 leadership and congregants stepped out in faith to purchase the land. Pledges were accepted in April 2002 for both one-time gifts and three-year commitments.
  
• In July of 2002 the Men's Ministry of Salem raised an altar and a cross on the property, to provide both a spiritual presence in the area, and as a testimony to the word and promises of God.
  
• An architect was hired and worked with a Design Build Committee from Salem to develop what they could only describe as an anointed set of long-range plans that were unveiled to the Salem family on June 22, 2003. On July 13th, 2003 the body of Salem came together and affirmed the following statement:
  
  • "Sensing God's leading, we are now coming together in a spirit of unity and fellowship to accept the calling from God to:
    
  • Cross the Scioto and accept the vision of regional outreach and evangelism to the un-churched
    
  • Build a new ministry facility as presented by the Design team
    
  • Authorize Salem Community Church Council to secure funding for and construction of a ministry facilities not to exceed $3.2 million"
    
• A capital campaign to raise funds for the construction of the facility was held in November of 2003. We continue to receive money pledged through that campaign, and are waiting on the Lord for His direction in our next step.