Dear Church,

Thank you for your continued prayers and support. I recently spoke personally with more than half of the pastors of our supporting churches to share some difficult things we are facing personally. To be blunt, I was not looking forward to the calls, however; each call I made provided more encouragement and I was strengthened by each man of God I spoke to. The Lord’s people began praying more fervently and the situation is improving!

After several weeks of discussion, we were able to negotiate favorable lease terms for the new location. The original asking price for the space was based on approximately $1.25 per square foot, or about $1,302 per month, plus a proportional share of taxes and insurance. After negotiation, the landlord agreed to lease the space to us for $1,000 per month in the first year, increasing to $1,050 in years two and three, with an option to extend years four through six at $1,081.50 per month. The lease also includes a proportional share of property taxes and insurance (NNN), though we plan to apply for a church property tax exemption so the tax portion can be removed once approved. We expect the total cost to be about $1,245 per month at first, and once the property tax exemption is approved it should drop to about $1,020 per month. This agreement secures a highly visible and strategic location for the church at a rate significantly below the original asking price, while providing predictable increases and the opportunity to remain in the space long-term as the ministry continues to grow. We will make this lease contingent upon receiving our Temporary Use Permit from the city.

This lease will be a huge step of faith for Anchor Baptist Church. Tithes and Offerings have increased over the past 4 months, but we have also gone through times when our immediate family were the only ones giving. Please pray for us during this time. I believe we should accept the offer and move ahead with this monumental step of faith.

Last Sunday we saw some great fellowship among the people and I was able to clarify some important details about believer’s baptism for a sincere family who attend regularly. God is clearly at work and we are so glad you are here to share with the burdens and the victories.