Except the Lord
build the house,
they labour in vain
that build it

~ Psalm 127:1

Two significant changes took place toward the end of this period. First, the size of the congregation nearly doubled. Chairs were shifted and re-shifted and then Sunday School rooms were utilized for overflow seating. Almost a year was spent searching for more rental space but the only viable option found was a parcel of land about thirty minutes northeast of Sarasota. As leadership took it under prayerful consideration, several other churches opened in the strip center. The interference of loud rock music coupled with new parking issues confirmed the Holy Spirit’s leading to go forward.

Trustees experienced in real estate and construction were already in place and together with the ministry they designed a building that would meet the growing needs of Christ’s Body. Much thought went into every detail to ensure the best possible worship environment with a balance struck between modern technologies, convenience, comfort, and rigorous stewardship of God’s provision. And, it should be stated that funds available due to the pastor’s years of selfless living made it possible to to go forward.

The second significant change concerned John Stemen’s health. After a lifetime of clean and vigorous living, our beloved brother was diagnosed with liver failure, possibly caused by a virus or bacteria picked up while traveling overseas. He faithfully stood on God’s promise and the entire assembly prayed together for him at the end of a service when the Lord’s Presence had come in a very special way. Faith joined to faith firmly staked at Calvary’s finished work. Bro. John continually professed his healing, but willingly went along with recommended treatment while Bro. Danny and Bro. Bill helped shoulder day to day responsibilities.

On April 1st, 2009, Bro. John joyfully broke sod on 6.4 acres of God’s land at 23707 SR 70 East in Myakka City, Florida!

On April 26th, the entire assembly gathered to pray and set a dedication stone with Psalm 127:1 inscribed on it; fittingly chosen by a man whose life proved through action the Word engraved in his heart.

Months later, the first ceremony to take place in the new sanctuary was a wedding originally been planned as an outdoor event.

The next day, October 4th, 2009, Bro. John preached the first regular service behind a new pulpit designed by one member and constructed by another. The Saints gathered within walls painted by some with paint given by others. The same applies throughout the entire facility in that some gave, some labored, all prayed - one Body, each joint effectively supplying.  Hearts overflowed with thankfulness as God’s people gathered in a peaceful country setting dedicated to Christ.

In December of the same year, we celebrated our official dedication services and enjoyed the preaching of Bro. Ron Spencer, Bro. Tim Pruitt and Bro. John Stemen, who gave testimony to the faithfulness of Jesus Christ over the years. On January 4, 2010, he and family celebrated his 74th Birthday. On February 20th a second wedding took place in the sanctuary, but Bro. John Stemen was unable to attend. Later that evening, he was taken to the hospital.

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