Questions and Answers About the Capital Campaign

Why are we expanding the CSL campus?
We have been making do on our existing campus, and it is time for us to expand into one that lets us serve everyone who wants to experience the message that “God is good and so are you.” We have been near capacity in our favored second and third Sunday services for over three years. Our limited classroom and youth space are now unable to fully serve our needs, and there is simply no space available in our present configuration for further growth. The expansion will allow for growth and connection. It will allow us to build a legacy for our children so they can raise their families in the Religious Science movement. And, it will make it easier for others in the Puget Sound area to experience our spiritual community.

What does the campus expansion project include?
The expanded campus on our Sand Point Way property will include a 1200-seat sanctuary that is specifically designed to create a greater sense of community and intimacy by placing the seats in a round, with no seat more than 15 rows from the stage. The expansion will also include more classrooms, an expanded Fellowship Hall, and dedicated space for our youth, practitioners, and our many ministries.

How are we funding it?
CSL is currently able to finance and pay debt services on the completion of Phase 1 – our new 1200-seat sanctuary. We are moving forward with this phase beginning in June 2006 so we can serve more people on Sundays. However, an improved sanctuary does not meet all of our needs as a spiritual community. We need a campus that fully supports our purpose; that’s why we are referring to the "capital campaign" as the "campus campaign." CSL is already committed to the first $7 million of this project; the campus campaign will fund Phases 2-4 incrementally. The campus campaign goal is to raise $4.5 million. Our plan is a solid one and we will build only to the extent that we are fully funded. In the meantime, we will continue to offer the programs and services that make Center for Spiritual Living a loving, supportive, and Spirit-filled community.

How much will the entire project cost?
Phases 1-4 will be fully completed (including furnishings) for $11.5 million. Additional funds raised will be used to fund campus art and beautification and to assist with debt services.

When will construction begin and when will it be finished?
We are planning to break ground on the sanctuary in late June 2006, but you may see some activity prior to that date. We expect the new sanctuary will be open for services by July 2007. As funding is available, we will continue on to Phases 2, 3, and 4.

How is this different from the fall Prosperity Campaign?
Our Fall Prosperity Campaign is held every year so we can determine our operating budget for the coming year, based on the amounts pledged by our congregants. The campus campaign is a short-term giving campaign specifically focused on the intention of funding our campus expansion project.

Can assets other than cash be committed to the campaign?
Yes. Many times, major gifts in the form of investment securities or other assets are committed in a campaign like ours. In fact, there may be favorable treatment under tax laws for people who make a donation of appreciated assets.

Who's involved in this project?
The campus expansion project and related fundraising campaign involves dozens of CSL members, who represent nearly every facet of our community. Plans, publications, decisions, and the visions for the new expanded campus are a reflection of our members. The project also draws on professionals from such areas as fund development, financing, project management, design, and construction.

How can I get involved?
There are many ways you can get involved. We are inviting you to be a part of this exciting expansion project by first praying for the success of our campus expansion. Then, we ask that you take the time to watch and enjoy the enclosed DVD -- we trust it will be both informative and inspirational as you consider your part in supporting this wonderful process of creating a legacy. You can also:

• Read all the letters, newsletters, and brochures you receive during the campaign.
• Be present at our Sunday services throughout the campaign (April 9-May 7) so you can hear Rev. Kathianne and others talk about the “Creating a Campus That Supports Our Purpose” vision for CSL’s expansion.
• Share your skills and talents as a campaign volunteer.
• Attend our campaign kick-off events.
• Finally, we ask that you prayerfully consider what is yours to do in support of creating this expanded campus and legacy, by making a financial commitment above and beyond your regular giving. This gift will be paid out over a three-year period. Commitment cards will be available beginning in late April and turned in through May 21.

Where can I get more information?
Find more information on this website by clicking on the various menu links. You are also welcome to e-mail further questions to expansion@cslseattle.org