Children participating in church event in Blaine MN

The Future Building Plans

Future Building Plans at Chain of Lakes Church

Chain of Lakes Church has always been about people.

From the beginning, our congregation has focused on creating a welcoming church where people can connect, grow in faith, build meaningful relationships, and serve their neighbors. As our church continues to grow, we are beginning to experience the kinds of challenges that come with a healthy and active congregation.

The purpose of our future building plans is simple: create space for ministry.

After months of discussion, facility review, and planning, church leaders and volunteers have developed a proposal that would help Chain of Lakes better serve children, youth, families, small groups, and the broader community for years to come.

What Is Being Proposed?

Following a review process led by the Short-Term/Long-Term Facility Requirements Team, a preliminary concept plan was developed with assistance from the church architect.

New Ministry Space

The proposed addition would create approximately 1,672 square feet of new ministry space, including:

Expanded nursery facilities
Dedicated youth room
Additional conference and education rooms

These spaces would support children, youth, discipleship programs, small groups, meetings, and future ministry growth.

Improvements to Existing Space

The proposal also includes updates within the current building:

Expanded fellowship and gathering areas
Repurposed storage and ministry rooms
Improved functionality for worship and ministry teams
Better use of existing square footage

These improvements would help create a more welcoming environment before and after worship while supporting ongoing ministry activities.

Additional Parking

The concept plan includes approximately 20 additional parking spaces beyond the current 46-space parking lot.

Additional parking would improve accessibility and help accommodate future growth and special events.

Chain of Lakes Church Blaine MN Location

How Does This Support Our Mission?

At Chain of Lakes Church, buildings are tools for ministry.

Every room serves a purpose:

A nursery helps families feel welcome.
Youth space creates opportunities for connection and growth.
Meeting rooms support discipleship and small groups.
Fellowship space encourages relationships.
Parking helps remove barriers for visitors.

These plans are designed to support our mission of hospitality, joyful love, healthy disagreement, community engagement, and investing in future generations.

The vision is not simply a larger building. The vision is creating more opportunities for people to encounter faith, belonging, and community.

Potential Timing Options

Several timing scenarios are being considered.

Current discussions include possible construction starts in:

Spring 2027
Fall 2027
Spring 2028

Each option has different implications for fundraising, financing, and ministry needs. No final timeline has been selected.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are exploring ways to connect at Chain of Lakes Church, these common questions may help guide your next step.

Has the project been approved?

Not yet. Church leadership is gathering feedback and evaluating next steps before any final decisions are made.

Why expand now?

The facility review identified several ministry areas that are already at or near capacity, including nursery, youth space, meeting rooms, fellowship areas, and parking.

How much would the project cost?

Current planning estimates place the project between $500,000 and $600,000, though final costs have not been determined.

Will the congregation vote on the project?

After receiving input from the congregation, the Session will vote on the project. The congregation would vote on any additional loans that possibly would be taken.

How can I share questions or feedback?

Please email your comments or questions to [email protected]. Church leadership wants to hear from every voice in the congregation.

In Summary

Chain of Lakes Church in Blaine, Minnesota is exploring future building improvements to better support growing ministries and community needs. Proposed plans include expanded nursery space, dedicated youth rooms, additional education and meeting rooms, improved fellowship areas, and additional parking. Church leadership is currently gathering feedback and evaluating timing, financing, and next steps before any final decisions are made.