Church celebrates new addition
Published 9:15 pm Monday, September 19, 2016
Riverbend Church celebrated a new addition to its main campus on Thursday.
The 4,000 square-foot, two-story annex was “designed for the youth,” said Bonnie Resor, a member at the church. The first floor will also serve as a site for community outreach events. She added the church’s administrative offices will be on the second floor.
More than 60 people were in attendance at the annex ribbon cutting ceremony, including Mayor Linda Johnson and Councilman Roger Fawcett.
“It was fantastic,” said Bobby Hill, pastor at Riverbend Church. “We really enjoyed formally dedicating what God has put on our hearts. We express our thanksgiving to God, because He made it happen.”
The facility, which is adjacent to the church’s main building, had been vacant for several years. Hill said the church decided to lease it earlier this year.
Renovations began in March and concluded in August.
Within the last few years, the church has experienced a notable growth in membership. This year, in response to the growth, Riverbend started hosting two Sunday services instead of one, Bonnie said.
The current church buildings are under lease. Hill hopes to plant a permanent building in the Bennett’s Creek area within the next few years.
This Saturday also marks another day of celebration for the church — the second annual Hey! Suffolk Community Fest. More than 1,000 people are expected to attend the event, according to church member Mike Bauswell.
The fest, which has no admission charge, will feature local food vendors, live gospel music and activities for all ages to enjoy.
“This is a community day and a way to say ‘hey’ to the community,” Bauswell said.