Shallowford Presby. Cuts Ribbon on $3.3 Million Expansion

Shallowford Presbyterian Church held a Dedication Service and Ribbon Cutting event for the recently completed a $3.3 million expansion and renovation of key portions of the existing ministry facilities at its campus located at 2375 Shallowford Road.

Updates and changes to the church’s sanctuary include the installation of new windows, new lights and a new sound system. The church added a new nursery on the main level close to the sanctuary to make it handy for parents. The church expanded and redesigned the entire area below the sanctuary to create a welcoming, accessible entrance and a more functional space that would house the Shallowford Food Pantry and accommodate the growing church staff.

The adult and youth choirs’ rehearsal space, housed on the lower level, was also expanded. The youth choir has grown 33 percent in the past three years, now totaling more than 80 student singers. The adult choir features 60 active members.

Under the guidance of Rev. Christopher Henry, Senior Pastor, and key church leaders, the church conducted a capital campaign titled Rooted in Faith, Forward in Hope to fund the projects. The church congregation pledged a total of $3 million for work that also included renovation of the church’s outdated kitchen that is used to support event and fellowship ministries.

“Shallowford Presbyterian Church is in the midst of an exciting season of new life and thriving ministry,” said Rev. Henry. “We are growing in membership and, continuing the tradition of this congregation, are active in mission and ministries to serve our world and community as we build upon strengths and welcome others for generations to come.”

Founded 58 years ago, Shallowford now has a membership of 940 members. The church offers programs and mission opportunities for all ages in addition to two worship services on Sundays. Popular programs include an active youth group, choirs for children, youth and adults, Bible studies, men’s and women’s groups and a Wednesday night dinner and program. The church is home to Shallowford Presbyterian School, recently celebrating its fiftieth anniversary. It expanded to include a first grade class in the fall of 2015 and will add a second grade class in the fall of 2016.

“Honoring our commitment to mission and community ministry, and out of gratitude to the tremendous blessings we have all received from our generous God, the church dedicated ten percent of the total contributions to mission partnerships serving those beyond our doors,” stated Rev. Henry.

Photo Caption: Cutting the ribbon for the $3.3 million expansion at Shallowford Presbyterian Church are, left to right, standing, Jeff Pendergrast, Jay Turney, Clay Rosselot, Martha Rosselot, Rev. Catherine Foster, Bill Kendall, Alex Turney and Ruth O’Toole. Front row with the scissors: Rev. Christopher Henry and Rowan Reese.