The Salvation Army Kemptville Corps, Ont., officially opened the doors to its newly renovated church building in November, with 160 people attending the grand opening event. The new building, located just across the street from the former location, has been a long-anticipated project driven by a need for more space as the congregation has grown over the years.

The church now occupies a former 1,200-square-metre Giant Tiger building that has since been repurposed for The Salvation Army and divided in half with the thrift store on one side and a worship space on the other. The food bank has moved into the old church building.

According to Erin Wong, corps leader, the corps often uses the analogy of a family and shares a faith declaration at the beginning of each service that states it is a family of faith. The newly renovated building reflects this theme, featuring a spacious sanctuary seating up to 150 people, a classroom, office, family room, residential-style kitchen and a main gathering room with a fireplace, lounge area and welcome centre. “We wanted it to have the warmth of the feeling of home,” says Wong.

To symbolize that the church is built on a foundation of Christ, a Bible was placed underneath the sidewalk at the entrance of the building. “Everything we do here is based on God’s Word. This space is dedicated to his honour and glory,” says Calvin Wong, corps leader.

The grand opening was attended by corps members and friends; Commissioners Lee and Debbie Graves, territorial leaders; Major Wendy Broome, area commander, Ontario Division; as well as former area commanders Majors Gary and Sharon Cooper who had walked the Wongs through the early stages of the project.

“We also had local pastors from other churches in the community attend,” says Erin Wong. “It was a wonderful time, and we felt very supported and encouraged. People are excited to see God doing something new at the corps.”

Since its opening, Kemptville Corps has witnessed the impact that a welcoming atmosphere has on the community as new faces come into the church. One day, the corps hosted an adult fellowship luncheon and as the meal was being prepared in the kitchen, customers in the thrift store next door could smell it and asked what it was. “The smell of the food was so enticing, so we invited the customers to come and join us for lunch,” says Erin Wong.

“We see this new space as a stepping stone for the future,” adds Calvin Wong. “As our congregation and programs grow, we will continue to evolve to meet the needs of our community.”

Photos: Emma Beck