Rafter Writing, and other Fresh Ideas for Church Construction

Written by Diana Davis

“It was in my heart to build a house for the name of the LORD my God.” 1 Chronicles 22:7b

Deacon Wives

It’s exciting to watch many new churches and growing churches across the nation who are beginning construction on buildings. Need fresh ideas for those eventful construction days?

Cross on Top
Builders often erect a tree on the roof during construction. Why not top your construction project with a large cross made of two-by-fours instead?

Coming Soon
Invest in a professional sign to inform curious passersby about the project. A hand-delivered memo to residential and commercial neighbors can let them know what’s happening and invite them to worship.

Plumbers Lunch Bell
Provide a hot lunch or box lunch for every different work crew, i.e. painters, electricians, landscapers. Include a note of thanks, a witness tract, and an invitation to worship. Challenge church members to personally invite workers.

Rafter Writing
When framing is complete, invite church members for a special ceremony. Encircle the building for prayer; then distribute permanent marking pens. Play Christian music while everyone writes his or her name with a prayer or Scripture on studs or rafters.

Steeple Setting Ceremony
If your building plans include a steeple or exterior cross, plan an informal celebration for members at the time of its installation.

Weekly Photo Update
Designate a volunteer photographer to capture building progress and action photos of each volunteer. Submit unique photos to local newspapers. Show weekly photos in pre-worship audiovisuals, website or newsletter, and create a photo journal for the building dedication.

Grab a Hammer
Involve different groups in the church when possible. Examples: single adults paint, fathers and sons install doors, sweeping senior saints (“Triple S Club”) sweep the site each Friday, kids collect pennies for a piece of Christian art, teens plant trees, etc.

I sat by a little boy in the new church foyer after a church service recently. “See that door?” he pointed. “Me and my dad put up that door.” What a joy to work together to God’s glory! Grab a hammer.