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DRAPER -- With a fast-growing congregation, the members of the South Mountain Community Church in Draper are preparing for Sunday's worship services in their huge new building.
Since 1998, members have moved from one location to another as the congregation grew. Now they think they have a permanent home.
Located on at 14216 S. Bangerter Parkway this non-denominational Christian church definitely makes a statement. Built on nearly 11 acres, the pastors and members hope it will be both eye-catching and welcoming. It is 40,000 square feet and cost $6.2 million.
"We wanted people to drive by and first of all, appreciate the beauty of the building and then say, 'That's a church? Wow! I didn't really recognize it as a church right away,'" said Pastor Paul Robie.
One of the members donated the land and now it's a race to the finish to unpack the boxes and put things in order by Sunday morning.
Congregants had been worshiping in a warehouse, so this exterior design was created to send a message.
"One of the features that was important to us was a lot of glass. It represents transparency," Robie said.
Dozens of volunteers are putting in long hours working in every part of the building.
"This is something you don't see in many churches," Robie said. "We've always had an indoor playground and we have an outdoor playground as well. Kids love this."
5th and 6th graders have a room to themselves every Sunday, as do the 1st through 4th graders, who have special access to the outdoor play area. The teens have their space, and a view of the Church's first recreation yard.
"Our goal is that children will be dragging their parents to church," said Teresa Hansen, Pastor of the Next Generation. "This is such a fun atmosphere."
"What's going on here? They're curious. And that way, they're ready to hear about God."
Pastor Robie believes the worship room it is the largest such space among Protestant churches in Utah. He hopes to have 3000 attending two services each week. They'll be watching three huge HD screens.
The church has a bookstore and a café where drinks and snacks served before, between and after services. Seating offers a view the pastor hopes will be both stunning and peaceful.
The first worship services at South Mountain Community Church will take place Sunday, March 17 at 9:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. There is an open house with public tours, Saturday, March 31 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
