The Vision
Early in Jesus’ ministry, crowds gathered to witness His power. In Luke 5, a paralyzed man’s friends faced a blocked path to Jesus. Undeterred, they lowered him through the roof, and Jesus forgave and healed him. The crowd responded with awe: “We have seen extraordinary things today” (Luke 5:26).
This story challenges us. Could we, like the crowd, unintentionally block the way for others? Not out of malice, but by overlooking the needs of the marginalized or differently abled.
This is why we’re launching the Widening Our Welcome campaign. We aim to make our church a place where everyone can experience Jesus' love. Through this effort, we will:
- Modernize restrooms, install ramps and lifts, and remove barriers to meet ADA standards.
- Remodel the sanctuary chancel for safer, more inclusive worship.
- Build housing for ministry interns, student teachers, and future church workers.
This campaign is about faith in action—creating spaces where all can “come in” to experience Christ’s presence. Join us in this transformative journey. With your prayers and generosity, we’ll see “extraordinary things.”
What It Will Take
If, as an act of faith and generosity, families and individuals make a commitment above and beyond their current tithe/offering, we can raise all necessary funds in one year.
Here is the progress we’ve made, current as of September 1, 2025:
Timeline
Timelines are subject to change based on numerous factors.
January 2025
Architects begin working with the City of La Mesa to obtain permits.
March 23, 2025
Special Voter’s Meeting held. Approved to accelerate the project through the use of a loan or line of credit if necessary.
May 27-28, 2025
Permits approved by the City of La Mesa. Invitations to bid were sent to contractors.
June 24, 2025
Molinar Construction, a La Mesa-owned and operated company, was awarded the contract for all work.
July 2025
We began the remodel of the chancel, lower gym restrooms/locker rooms, Youth Center restrooms, and 2nd floor restrooms (which were originally part of Phase 3).
Fall/Winter 2025
Projected completion of Phase 1 and projected start of the permitting process for Phase 2 (ADU). Projected start of Phase 3 (Remodel Office Restrooms and Youth Center Basement; Concrete work outside of youth center)
Spring 2026
Projected start of Phase 4 (Parking Lot Accessibility, Second Floor Accessibility)
Status of Work
Chancel: COMPLETED AUGUST 31, 2025
2nd Floor Restrooms: Estimated Completion September 30
Youth Center Restrooms: Estimated Completion October 15
Gym Restrooms/Locker Rooms: Estimated Completion November 30
Office Restrooms: Pending
Sanctuary Ramp/Doors: Pending
2nd Floor Accessibility: Pending
Youth Center Basement: Pending
Youth Center Porch: Pending
ADU: Pending
Copyright Christ Lutheran Church 2025