Antioch church plans expansion the whole town can enjoy

Northbridge Church of Antioch plans to build a new community center on the east side of town.

The building will be used for the church's youth ministry, but that's only part of the plan. Leaders hope children from throughout the Antioch area will make full use of the place as well.

Northbridge and other community officials will break ground on the $2.5 million Bridge Center next spring, in hopes that it will be finished by fall 2010. Money for the building was raised by members of the congregation.

Located east of Route 45 on Route 173, the 13,000-square-foot multipurpose center will have a gymnasium, a stage for concerts and a full kitchen, among other amenities.

"We really have a heart for young people and for the community," said Mark Albrecht, the senior pastor of the 400-member nondenominational church. "This is in line with that vision."

The church meets at Antioch High School, but owns 21 acres on the far east edge of town. Albrecht said the original plan called for building a new sanctuary on the site, but leaders decided the greater need was for youth ministry space and a gathering place for children.

Albrecht said the church sought input from local officials during the planning process.

"We met at length with Antioch officials to get suggestions on how best we could serve their needs," he said. "This isn't just our building. We want to partner with the community."

Antioch Elementary District 34 Superintendent Scott Thompson said he's looking forward to ways the students in his district might benefit.

"The community center is an idea and concept that has a great deal of promise and possibilities," he said. "As the dream of building this facility takes shape, District 34 would like to investigate how we might participate."

Albrecht said the building will be a great place for kids to hang out and play basketball, but he sees another potential.

"We realize there are a lot of kids who are falling behind academically. We hope that one day we can have adults or even teens acting as reading tutors for the younger ones," he said. "If we can give them dinner, too, that would be great. We really want to help in a tangible way."

Antioch Mayor Larry Hanson said he supports the project but said church leaders need to keep their faith separate from the secular activities that happen there.

"They have the right idea and the right vision," Hanson said. "They are meeting a need in the community, but they need to keep boundaries recognizing there are people of many different faiths and religions that may use the facility."

Albrecht said the church's intention is to serve students in practical ways. It's not about luring them to church. He said the after-school programs are distinct from the church programs.

"Our intent is to serve and bless our community. We want to be a positive and transforming influence and show the love of God to those in need," he said. "That is our main mission."

Northbridge has a history of community involvement. The annual Sharefest food and social service project was started by Northbridge in 2004. It has grown to be one of the largest food drives in Lake County. The church also partners with Antioch for the annual Father and Son Milk Jug Boat Regatta.

"We are always looking for ways to connect with the community and to serve - especially the youth," Albrecht said. "We see this as a bridge to the next generation."