In 2023, one of our members, Jon Pelzer, conducted a thorough study of our congregation. One of the most important slices of data he looked at was our congregation’s age. At that time, he discovered the average age of our people was 68.94 years of age. Fast forward three years to 2026 and that number would be 71.44. By God’s grace our family of faith is seeing an increase in younger people, however this trend will need to continue and grow to make a substantive difference. The chart below reveals what we can expect if the status quo continues.
As we age, mobility becomes more of a challenge. Walkers, wheelchairs and canes assist many in continuing to participate in our faith community. On November 9, 2025, our Voter’s Assembly approved an “Accessibility Project” nearly unanimously. The two main prongs of this work will be a renovation of the Narthex/Lobby area to include a ramp and covered drop-off to help people gain way access to the building.A few years ago, God blessed us with a beautiful and highly functional Sanctuary renovation. We widened aisles, installed hand railing, improved sound, removed asbestos, new sacred flooring, updated seating and flooring, etc. Now it’s time to take the next step towards welcoming in family and friends. I hope you will participate with me in making this need a reality.
Nat Davies
Grace Lutheran Church
Annual Voters Meeting | November 9, 2025
Meeting called to order:
12:10 by David Swille, President.
Prayer:
Led by Pastor Widger
Approval of Meeting Minutes:
Special Voters meeting dated September 21, 2025 Hank Jacobs made a motion to approve, Joe Masterson seconded the motion, Motion carried.
Facilities Team Report:
Gary White presented this report to the congregation. In his report, he listed several projects that are being considered. These are accessibility in to and around the main building, a pavilion, campus security, parking lot improvement, and the drainage ditch between the playground and ball field. The highest priority presented was accessibility. This would include modifying the narthex with a ramp at an estimated cost of $97,000.00. Also, a covered drop off area at the south GLEE door at an estimated cost of $38,000.00.
Motion:
Alan Meyer made a motion to approve an accessibility project that will include the narthex ramp and covered drop off area. Nat Davies seconded the motion.
Hank Jacobs called the question. A vote by show of hands was taken, 79 votes for the Accessibility Project and 1 against, motion approved.
We believe the Church should be a place where every person feels welcomed, valued, and able to fully participate in the life of our church family. But for some, physical barriers can make that difficult.
Limited accessibility to key areas of our campus can create challenges for members, visitors, families, and especially those with mobility concerns. Simple things like entering the building, moving between spaces, or participating in worship and community events should never stand in the way of someone experiencing belonging.
As our church continues to grow and serve future generations, we have an opportunity to remove those barriers and create spaces that reflect the love and hospitality of Christ. Prepare the Way is more than a building project—it is a commitment to making room for everyone.
By investing in accessibility now, we are creating a church home that better serves our current congregation and opens the door wider for those who have yet to walk through it.
Prepare the Way is a campaign focused on improving accessibility, safety, and connection across our church campus so that every person can fully experience worship, fellowship, and community.
This project will help create:
- Improved accessibility to key entrances and gathering spaces
- Safer and easier navigation throughout the campus
- More welcoming spaces for families, seniors, and visitors
- Better opportunities for fellowship and connection before and after worship
- A church environment that reflects our mission of grace, hospitality, and belonging
These updates are not simply about buildings—they are about people. They are about ensuring that every individual, regardless of age or ability, can feel at home here. Together, we are preparing the way for future ministry, stronger community, and a church where everyone has a place.
CLARITY BUILDS TRUST
PRAY for wisdom, unity, and God’s guidance throughout this campaign. Pray for the leaders, the planning process, and for every life that will be impacted through these improvements.
GIVE: Financial gifts help make these accessibility improvements possible. Whether through a one-time gift, recurring giving, or a pledge commitment, every contribution helps prepare the way for future ministry.
SHARE: Help spread the vision by sharing the heart behind this campaign with your family, friends, and fellow church members. Your voice helps invite others to be part of what God is doing.
STAY CONNECTED: Follow campaign updates, attend special events, and stay informed as we move forward together. We want everyone to feel included in the process and excited about what’s ahead. Together, we can create a church where every person feels welcomed, included, and able to fully participate in the life of Grace.
YOU CAN SUPPORT THROUGH:
ONE-TIME GIVING:
Make a single gift to help fund immediate accessibility improvements and project needs.
RECURRING GIVING:
Ongoing monthly giving allows families to participate in a way that is intentional, manageable, and impactful over time.
PLEDGE COMMITMENT:
A pledge allows you to prayerfully commit to giving over the course of the campaign. This helps us plan responsibly and move forward with confidence.
OTHER WAYS TO GIVE:
If you would like to discuss stock gifts, memorial gifts, employer matching, or other giving opportunities, please contact the church office for more information.
