April 30, 2009 , A message from the MV District office:
Dear Colleagues and Friends,
Thank you so much for all your ideas, recommendations, and thoughtful reflection as to the future location of our district offices. Every insight was so very helpful and important. Every comment was taken into faithful consideration.
Over twenty different locations were reviewed. Many factors were weighed from geographic location, rental/leasing cost, required capital improvements, strategic missional value as well as the many practical needs. During these economic times, financial implications weighed heavily on the decision-making process in addition to the potential missional opportunities.
There were actually many suitable options, several very good ones, but one scenario seemed to rise above in priority of opportunity. However, instead of thinking that there is one, perfect location for every need, we will be utilizing several sites across the district as we stay in touch with our service region.
1. Our region is filled with several, very notable Teaching Church sites. Especially for larger group meeting space, we already have many options for which we need not go out and build. For example, my Introductions were held at four: High Street Springfield, Normandy, Lewisburg, and Troy First. I learned something new from each context as the result of being on-site.
2. Effective early this summer, through a strategic partnership with United Theological Seminary, our district's administrative offices will be located in a very nice suite on their main campus at 4501 Denlinger Rd. in Dayton, Ohio.
3. I also plan to go on-site to churches and regions that are undertaking significant projects and/or change, in addition to regular visits with our churches and their leaders. If needed, I may set up a satellite office in key areas for a period of time.
President Edwards and her staff at United have been very gracious in accommodating all our practical needs. This partnership will also put us in position to take advantage of several, very strategic opportunities.
The practical benefits include:
Great facilities including complete handicap accessibility
Many large and small meeting rooms
On site theological library, resource library, and Cokesbury Bookstore
Many local restaurants
Full tech and digital capabilities
Catering services for special events
Walking trails for prayer and reflection
Ample parking
Close proximity to I-70, I-75, and St. Rt. 35 nexus.
Located on the edge of our district's largest population center.
And it's one of the most economical options explored!
The strategic opportunities include:
Regular contact with many of our up and coming ministry candidates
Urban ministry partnerships and outreach opportunities
Clergy and congregational health initiatives
Leadership training courses offered through the Institute for Applied Theology and their Pohly Center.
Continuing education and course of study options
Internship opportunities in our district's teaching churches.
On-site media center and recording studio for local church projects and training.
In addition, the United location avoids many of the challenges associated with some of the other potential sites.
No significant capital improvements or investment is required
Utility costs are kept to a minimum
United has ample usable space: several conference rooms and larger classrooms, halls, and multi-purpose areas for all sized groups.
The tenant-landlord relationship is secure
Please help me extend our district's greatest thanks to Dr. Edwards and the United family in their gracious overture. The kingdom will be extended even further as we all continue to work more deeply together in Christ's cause.
Moving date and new contact information will be published shortly hereafter.
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Dr. Christopher Heckaman
Please pass along to others
John Fristoe (Interim eNews Editor)
Visit us at http://commoncupchurches.org/
