A new church building has been set out in the sun and the rain and the breeze of East Tennessee. It is, like us, planted in the rich soil of  Monroe County. The front porch respects the dignity and character of the family that’s had many a reunion here. “You are family!” it says to everyone who stops by.

The cross above the door and the companion crosses shaped by the porch beams testify to our faith in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Their outstretched arms, and the shape of the building itself, are signs of our unity with other Christians, as together we seek to be, and make, disciples of Our Lord.

The solar walls and roof are like the ridges and trees of this land. They are folded and canopied just right, by design. They allow a balance of shade and sun, of coolness and heat, according to the needs of the season.

Our care for the earth is reflected in the materials and colors of this church and in the harmony of this building with the land around it. We want all people, and the animals nearby, to feel at home here. Those who bless us with their presence will make this site a holy place as they walk, breathe and commune with the Creator on these grounds and within these walls.

The partnership of so many people in the building process has helped us learn gentleness, kindness and cooperation. As we continue, may the Holy Spirit help us to listen to others, to honor creation and to build peace. May we bloom and bear the fruit of reconciliation.

The simplicity of this structure reminds us we need nothing but God’s love. It reminds us to give God thanks for every new day and for our daily bread—our life in Jesus. It reminds us to drink daily from the cup of mercy, of justice, of equal rights and responsibility for all.

See God‘s church in the old and new faces, the chairs, fixtures and prayers assembled here. As church, we lift our hands to bless this place. As church, we lift our eyes to the mountains for help from God in our mission of family, unity and care.