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Back Home Again, in Indiana

by Gerry Leslie

In late June, 1998 Gerry Leslie visited with several recent UCS church projects in the state of Indiana.  Two of these projects included multipurpose centers with full fledged gyms built within UCS domes. 

Frankfort Heritage's Girls Volleyball program uses their new gym to practice in.

5:30 a.m. comes extremely early for me. Usually my brain is deep in the transient thoughts of REM sleep at this time, but today I was preparing to visit three of our larger projects.

I had initially planned on making this trip several days earlier, but a streak of violent thunderstorms had made their way through Indianapolis and Ft. Wayne postponing my trip. Of course, the day I rescheduled my trip for was the same day my beloved Detroit Red Wings would be playing to sweep the Washington Capitals from the Stanley Cup Finals. Therefore it became imperative I be back home by 8 p.m. to watch the much anticipated moment.

After 3 hours and 45 minutes on the road, 15 minutes from North Webster Church of God, we hit a torrential downpour. The rain did not dampen the beauty of the building however, as the 110' dome was truly a showplace. They were in the process of preparing for their June 28, dedication, so I knew I would be in for a great experience. We had worked closely with Robert Arrendale from AET, and Lynn Graber to ensure a beautiful church. The elegance of the church can be seen particularly in the gable that houses a beautiful cross, surrounded by a circular stained glass window. I was particularly impressed with how the sanctuary incorporated a state-of-the-art lighting and audio system.

After leaving North Webster, I continued on in the rain, to Warsaw, to visit New Life Christian Center’s new 120' dome. It was there that I had the privilege of meeting Pastor Russ Spangle, who showed me around what would soon house the church’s school, youth, and athletic ministries. It was interesting to hear of plans to develop a "Discovery Zone" style area for the children, and a youth center that will be decorated with an "industrial warehouse" theme.

About 2:00 p.m., we left Warsaw and headed toward Frankfort. At this point, I realized things were not looking good for making it home for the face off of the Red Wings game.

When we arrived at Living Word Fellowship, we were greeted by Pastor Allen who gave us a full tour of their 120' dome. This structure was unique for us since it was our first 120' dome, and also our first dome which had been built as a varsity level school gymnasium. It was exciting to imagine our building being the home to the FHCS "Warriors."

As we returned home I thought of how much I had enjoyed meeting with wonderful ministers, and sharing in the excitement of their new churches. And, oh yes, I did make it home in time to see Detroit Captain Steve Yzerman hoist Lord Stanley’s Cup above his head in victory.

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