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So many churches are working to maximize their space to help guests and others from the community feel welcome. So when we heard that our neighbors at King of Glory Church in Carmel, Ind. had done just that, we had to find out more!

King of Glory is located on the southwest corner of 106th Street and Keystone (just off the roundabout). In the past several years, Carmel has been the epicenter of roundabout design and construction, even hosting the International Conference on Roundabouts (in 2011). And when a new roundabout was built at King of Glory’s intersection in recent years, they felt God bringing their vision together with a new opportunity. Well, maybe not at first.

At first, when news of a year-long road construction project (to build a roundabout) reached King of Glory, there was fear of how it would hurt attendance or the visibility of the church. But as King of Glory's Pastor Swartz began to pray, he thought about, “What is God’s vision for us? Why are we planted here?” The answer to those simple, but groundbreaking questions was the basis for what has now become their "front porch." 

To maximize their highly visible location at the roundabout which connects to a new bike and pedestrian path along 106th Street, King of Glory decided to create this front porch space. In this area, the church placed a large swing, chairs, inviting landscaping, a water fountain for people, and my favorite, a small water fountain for dogs! Runners, walkers, bikers and anyone using this path are welcome to enjoy this space.

When I think of a front porch, I imagine a big southern style wrap-around with rocking chairs and lemonade, but more importantly, I envision a place where everyone is welcome. Porches were created to invite others in, and as Pastor Swartz shared with us, friendly outdoor spaces were where Jesus did much of His ministry.

Pastor Swartz talks about how exciting it has been for their congregation to rally behind this God-given opportunity (their location in the roundabout and on the bike and pedestrian path). This new friendly area has become a place for many adults, children and even pets from the community to rest, refresh and connect. King of Glory special events and even worship services are held in this outdoor space on a frequent basis as well.

What an exciting way to serve and connect with the local community on an ongoing basis!    

So what unique opportunities has God given your church to connect with your local community? Have you considered your own front porch? Backyard? Parking lot? What else?