Situation

StoneBridge Christian Church, affectionately known as “The Silo Church” in Omaha, recognized the need to expand its facilities to accommodate its growing congregation and enhance its community outreach. The church embarked on a significant development project, engaging PlainJoe to design a new 22,900-square-foot Worship Center. This expansion aimed to enrich worship experiences, nurture family and children’s ministries, and foster greater community engagement.

Solution

The new Worship Center design includes a 1,500-seat auditorium, providing a much larger and more accommodating space for regular services and special events. This expansion also includes an enlarged baptistry area and additional backstage space equipped for Spanish translation services, catering to the diverse needs of the congregation.For younger members of the church, the existing kids’ ministry spaces are being transformed to better serve infants through preschool-aged children, complete with specialized nursing rooms for mothers. The current auditorium is being repurposed into a vibrant space dedicated to elementary-age children, from kindergarten through 5th grade, ensuring that each age group has a tailored environment that supports spiritual education and engagement.

Recognizing the value of outdoor community spaces, the expansion plan also includes significant enhancements to the church’s exterior areas. The PlainJoe team designed an expanded parking lot to accommodate an additional 722 vehicles, addressing the increased attendance and easing accessibility concerns for families. Additionally, the outdoor patio and courtyard areas are being expanded to maximize the use of existing gathering spaces, providing more opportunities for community and fellowship activities that extend beyond the church walls.

Transformation

The expansion of StoneBridge Christian Church’s campus is set to transform the church into a more inclusive and welcoming space for worship and community interaction. The new Worship Center will not only accommodate more congregants but will also enhance the worship experience with its state-of-the-art facilities. The focus on tailored spaces for children and families ensures that all age groups have a place that meets their spiritual and developmental needs.By expanding both indoor and outdoor facilities, StoneBridge is reinforcing its role as a bridge to God, one another, and the wider community. The enhanced spaces are designed to encourage more frequent and meaningful engagement among church members and to welcome new visitors into a supportive and vibrant community setting. This strategic expansion underscores StoneBridge’s commitment to growth and outreach, solidifying its presence as a cornerstone of faith in Omaha.

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