Our current interest rate is very favorable, and we are grateful for that. Even so, our monthly mortgage payment is approximately $26,000. That investment has been well worth it because our campus provides the space needed to support worship, discipleship, outreach, community partnerships, and countless ministries that bless our region.

Absolutely. One of our core convictions is that all people matter to God. Therefore, all people matter to us. Long’s Chapel is intentionally a multigenerational church, and we believe every generation has an essential role in the life of our congregation. At the same time, we recognize that our youngest generations are underrepresented compared to our surrounding community. That reality calls for intentional investment.

This is not about replacing one generation with another. It is about ensuring every generation has a place while intentionally building a church that will faithfully serve future generations as well.

Managing that balance is one of our greatest responsibilities—and one of our greatest opportunities.

No. Over the past several years we have intentionally realigned our staffing structure to better match both our current ministry needs and our future direction. Some positions have changed strategically, while others remain part of our long-term vision.

Our staffing levels are appropriate when you consider the full scope of Long’s Chapel’s ministry. In addition to our congregational ministry, our staff provides leadership, administration, and support for ministries that could easily function as separate nonprofit organizations, including our Child Enrichment Center and community outreach ministries.

Ultimately, every staff position exists for one purpose:

To equip the saints for the work of ministry (Ephesians 4).

Our goal is not simply to maintain programs but to develop people, strengthen ministry, and help every member discover and fulfill God’s calling.

Absolutely not. Long’s Chapel affiliated with the Global Methodist Church primarily because of convictions regarding the authority of Scripture and theological direction within the denomination. Our congregation prayerfully discerned that decision through an extended process, with approximately 70% voting to disaffiliate and nearly 90% voting to affiliate with the Global Methodist Church. That decision does not change one of our deepest convictions:

All people matter to God. Therefore, all people matter to us. Every person is welcome to worship, belong, grow, and encounter the transforming love of Jesus Christ at Long’s Chapel.

No. The current loan matures in 2030. At that time, we will either pay the remaining balance in full or refinance whatever balance remains. We are beginning this initiative now so we can prepare well rather than react at the last minute. Our lender has expressed confidence that Long’s Chapel would be well positioned to refinance under competitive terms if necessary. At the same time, we believe it is worth asking an even bigger question: What if we could eliminate that debt altogether?

Imagine the ministry opportunities that would become possible if those resources were fully available for God’s mission.

Yes. This is an ongoing conversation, and healthy churches ask it regularly. We continually evaluate where our time, energy, staffing, and financial resources are producing the greatest Kingdom impact. While many of our core ministries remain, the way we carry them out has evolved significantly over time. Some ministries have adapted. Others have been streamlined. Still others may continue to change as new opportunities emerge. Certain commitments, however, remain constant. We will always prioritize meaningful worship, discipleship for every age, community engagement, and pastoral care. How we organize and staff those ministries will continue to evolve as our congregation and community change. Faithfulness requires both consistency in mission and flexibility in method.