Out of the box

When it comes to churches, there is no such thing as "out of the box". In other words, every church has its own ministry, its own style, its own location, its own demographics, and its own personality. Have you ever purchased a new software for your business? Many of them come with built-in features and templates that are straight "out of the box". While we have the option to customize and make it our own, often times we find ourselves using it out of the box because it's faster, takes less effort, and it's what we know. That can work with computer software, but at the risk of being like everyone else, a church should consider carefully what it takes "out of the box".
Over the years I have seen common threads in church culture, but without exception, each one has proven to be unique. When the time comes for you to consider a new building or building addition, ask yourself the question, "What sets us apart from everyone else?" I believe at the heart of your answer you will find the essence of what your building project is all about. I tell all my clients that buildings are tools that are used for the ministries of the church. Too often I see churches that are trying to fit their ministries in their buildings rather than making their buildings fit their ministries.
So when you build, don't just take it "out of the box"...rather, think outside of the box.