West Campus Changes

After a request for information from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Clear Creek Independent School District asked CCCC to rescind our five-year contract that allowed us to meet in Clear Springs High School. After several days of debate and counsel, the elders agreed. The contract has been rescinded and CCCC can meet at Clear Springs High School until March 14, 2010. Beginning immediately, we will use the name Clear Creek Community Church - West Campus.

Dialogue with elders and others seemed to follow a common pattern that began with anger and landed in hope. No doubt, I started with anger. The request seemed unreasonable since our contract was less than half complete and we were informed that CCCC had done nothing wrong. We considered fighting the rescission and might have won in the short term, but for numerous reasons we determined to comply with the district’s request. Here are a few reasons:

1. We want to have a supportive, not combative relationship with the school district for the long term. We believe this honors God the most as we serve our community.
2. We don’t want to get distracted from our mission of leading unchurched people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus. I can’t imagine our elders and staff being engrossed in ongoing legal issues that would eclipse the distraction of the twelve days we spent on the rescission issue.
3. Although the district is rescinding our contract and will not allow us to meet at Clear Springs High School, we were told that the district is not closing the door on churches renting schools. This information influenced our decision.
4. We believe Romans 8:28. That is, God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God and are called according to his purpose. God wants His church to flourish more than we do. We trust Him, even when we don't understand everything that happens.
   

Last Sunday, at the West Campus I was inspired to see the determination of the people to make sure that the West Campus thrives in the future. West Siders suggested multiple alternative sites where we might meet; no conclusions as of yet.

While I started with anger, I am filled with hopeful enthusiasm about the West Campus. I believe the West Campus has the opportunity to become better than ever. Our new space, wherever it is, will surely have some improvements and possibly some things that are not as good. Regardless, we will overcome in this trial and emerge a campus that is more on mission than ever. Together, we will provide empty seats at optimal inviting hours in close proximity to the people we are trying to reach.

Click here to view my original video message that was emailed last week to our entire church about these changes.

Grace and Peace,