We’re delighted to share another encouraging update on our Stokes Croft building project. Thank you so much for continuing to pray, give and believe with us as we seek to establish a permanent home that will serve the mission of City Church for generations to come.
There have been several significant milestones over the past few weeks. First, Stewardship has now confirmed our lending package, enabling us to move confidently into the next stage of the purchase process. We’re incredibly grateful for God’s provision and for everyone who has contributed so generously to make this possible.
We’re also pleased to share that, following further negotiations, we’ve agreed a revised purchase price of £850,000 with the sellers. This represents a £75,000 reduction from our original agreed price and reflects the careful work of our trustees, advisers and solicitors to ensure we are good stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us.
Alongside this, we’re continuing to refine the refurbishment plans with our architects, surveyors and engineers to ensure we can deliver the project within our budget. Our aim is to create a welcoming, functional building that will enable ministry to flourish from day one, while allowing room for future development as God provides.
Before we can exchange contracts there are still a small number of important legal and technical matters to resolve, including finalising the legal arrangements for the rear fire escape and making some key decisions about the scope of the refurbishment. We would really value your continued prayers as we work through these final stages.
Alongside all of this, another significant change is on the horizon. We’ve recently been informed that we’ll need to leave our offices at Fenton Court by the end of September as the site is being redeveloped. While this means finding a temporary home for our staff team before we eventually move into Stokes Croft, we’re choosing to see God’s hand in it. It feels as though he is preparing us for the next chapter. As ever, the Church is not defined by the building we’re in, but by the people of God on his mission. Even so, this transition feels like another step towards the future God has for us.
This project has always been about far more than bricks and mortar. We believe God is providing a resource that will help us proclaim the gospel, make disciples, raise leaders, plant churches and serve Bristol for many years to come. We are excited by what lies ahead and thankful for God’s faithfulness at every stage of the journey.
Please continue to pray:
For wisdom in setting and stewarding the budget for the first phase of refurbishment.
For the outstanding legal matters to be resolved quickly and smoothly.
For a clear path to exchanging contracts in the coming weeks.
For the right temporary office space as we prepare to leave Fenton Court.
That this building would become a place where many people encounter Jesus, grow as disciples, and be sent out to bless Bristol and beyond.
Thank you for your continued generosity, prayers and encouragement. We look forward to sharing more updates as God continues to lead us forward.