The Lord has been kind to us. We’ve continued to grow through 2025. A few months ago, we purchased 100 comfortable steel chairs. But this Sunday, we had to bring in 20 plastic chairs to accommodate latecomers. Seating is stretched. But seating is not actually our most pressing limitation. Parking has once again become the ceiling to future growth.
Our parking area is operating at full capacity. Every Sunday, there are issues with folk being double parked. And about 10% of cars now park outside the premises on Wordsworth Road. Six months ago, we established a parking ministry team. They have done excellent work in reducing congestion and improving flow. But to continue welcoming visitors, we need to take further steps. It is the only way we can continue to reach Benoni with the Gospel, and equip all for life.
So, our executive has approved the purchase of another 50 chairs. And our treasurer has procured them. Our seating capacity is now 335 souls.
And, our executive has approved the reopening of the Linda Street entrance. An armed CMS guard will patrol vehicles inside and outside our premises from January. This will allow us to designate parking bays for the disabled. And bays for visitors.
As we work through these practical solutions, keep in mind why we do so. Every seat made available, every parking bay created serves one purpose. More people may hear the gospel and grow in Christ. This is an all-member mission, and I am grateful for the part you play in it.
Thank you for your patience, prayer, and support. If you have questions or suggestions, please feel free to reach out.
Afternoon.
Can we not request that seats are filled up from the front first as people come in? I see on Sunday’s lots of open spaces at the front an all over in fact. Maybe requesting people to sit in open areas would also help. One could usher them to those places.
With regards to parking. Could we not approach the council and see if the pavement can be done away with and on opposite sides parking made, like at the school & other church areas. I mean parking like in town – vertices. We could get quite a few cars there. Long term solution, but maybe worth the consideration?
Thanks
I think those are both great ideas.
Lookout for ushers early next year.
The parking is a little harder to get right, however, you’ve inspired me to reach out to our counsellor, Mary Goby. I’ll keep you updated regarding what she says.