October 10, 2007
First United Methodist Church assured its future in downtown Alpharetta with the purchase of the former Louie E. Jones Funeral Home property next door.
The Rev. Don Martin, senior minister, said the church's plans for its downtown site are "as far as we can see in the future."
The church will close soon on the 16,000-square-foot facility, on 2.88 acres. Alpharetta FUMC is paying $2,725,000 for the property. The convenience and flexibility of the property next door makes it worth the price, say church officials.
The congregation already has raised more than $1 million for the purchase, including a $350,000 endowment $350,000 bequeathed by a family estate for the purchase.
The 3,800-member congregation's decision to approve the expansion allows them to enjoy the charm and convenience of downtown Alpharetta, Martin said.
Martin said he is excited about the opportunity to expand the facilities for his congregation. The church added 254 members in 2006 and is on pace to do the same number this year, so the church was eager to secure room for expansion.
While the final use for the building is still being studied, one strategic goal under consideration is to expand and strengthen the church's youth ministry. Additionally, areas of the new building may be helpful to the senior adult ministry, while some space will likely be used for Sunday School classes and discipleship Bible studies.
While there was much buzz in the community and some interest by developers when the property was first placed on the market, the church was quick to make an offer the day after the for-sale sign went up.
Brian Patton, CCIM, owner of Capital Realty Advisors, LLC.
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