Building the Kingdom: Helping Churches Plan Smarter for Construction and Renovation

Church construction and renovation projects are more than just building projects. They are defining moments in the life of a congregation. Whether it’s creating a new sanctuary, reimagining an existing space, or refreshing a well-loved facility, the decisions made today can shape ministry for decades to come.

That’s why GuernseyTingle is proud to co-host the Building of the Kingdom: Church Construction & Renovation Workshop on Friday, May 1 at King of Glory Lutheran Church in Williamsburg.

This free half-day workshop is designed specifically for church leaders, building committees, and ministry visionaries who are considering how their physical space can better support their mission—now and in the future.

Co-presenters include Henderson Inc., David Nice Builders, Chesapeake Bank, Griffin Church Loans and Intentional Charity.

Why This Conversation Matters Now

Across Hampton Roads and beyond, churches are rethinking how their facilities serve their congregations and communities.

We’re seeing a growing shift toward adaptive reuse, with churches transforming retail, office, and industrial spaces into vibrant worship environments. At the same time, many congregations are moving away from single-purpose buildings in favor of multi-use spaces that support ministry throughout the week, hosting everything from childcare and community programs to outreach initiatives.

For some churches, the focus isn’t expansion at all, but rather strategic renovation and interior refreshes. Updates to lighting, acoustics, layout, and technology can dramatically improve how a space feels and functions, often without the need for new construction.

And perhaps most importantly, more churches are embracing long-term, phased master planning, allowing them to grow intentionally over time rather than taking on a single large project all at once.

These trends reflect a broader shift in how churches approach stewardship, thinking not just about what they need today, but what their ministry will require 10, 15, or even 20 years from now.

A Workshop Built Around Real-World Guidance

The Building of the Kingdom Workshop brings together a team of local experts—including architects, contractors, and financial professionals—to provide practical, actionable insights for churches at any stage of the planning process.

Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how to approach long-term facility planning, including how to phase projects so that what is built today supports future growth rather than limiting it. The workshop will also demystify construction delivery methods such as Design-Bid-Build, Construction Manager at Risk, and Design-Build, helping church leaders choose the right approach for their project.

Budgeting is another critical focus, with guidance on how to account for both hard costs and often-overlooked soft costs like furniture, fixtures, and equipment. Participants will also explore design strategies, including adaptive reuse and renovation approaches, along with how thoughtful design can enhance both ministry impact and financial sustainability.

Equally important, the workshop will address the human side of building projects, offering insights into how to communicate effectively with congregations, align stakeholders, and navigate decisions in a way that strengthens, rather than strains, church unity.

More Than a Workshop – A Time for Connection

In addition to the educational sessions, the event is designed to foster connection and collaboration. The day will begin with coffee and conversation and conclude with a catered lunch, giving attendees the opportunity to network with other church leaders facing similar opportunities and challenges.

A panel discussion on funding worship renovation projects will round out the day, providing practical perspectives on how churches can move from vision to reality with confidence.

Join Us on May 1

If your church is considering a facility upgrade, expansion, renovation, or even a simple refresh, this workshop is an opportunity to gain clarity, ask questions, and connect with trusted partners.

Building of the Kingdom: Church Construction & Renovation Workshop

Date: Friday, May 1, 2026
Time: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: King of Glory Lutheran Church
Cost: Free (registration required)

Browse the full agenda and register on Eventbrite.