St. Luke's consecrates youth ministry lodge on site

Million dollar facility built and financed in one year

By Daniel R. Gangler

INDIANAPOLIS -- An Indianapolis youth minister began with a vision for a youth ministry facility and a class in church architecture and ended with a custom-built $1-million lodge for youth. That's a miracle.

This youth ministry miracle began two years ago when Brian Durand, director of youth ministry at St. Luke's United Methodist Church in Indianapolis, took a course in church architecture at Christian Theological Seminary and in a project was required to visualize architecture that reflected the ministry.

"I visualized a place that was both open and welcoming to youth and their parents," Durand told more than 150 members of friends crowded into the worship space of Luke's Lodge for the building's dedication on Jan. 11.

The two-story 35,000 sq. ft. youth ministry facility was constructed in the far northeast corner of St. Luke's complex on West 86th Street. Luke's Lodge looks very much like a lodge or retreat center with large windows, open two-story atrium with elevator, mission-style furniture, even a fire place for those cold winter nights.

The lodge testifies to the congregation's energy. Funds for the building were raised in one month last spring during the 8,000-member congregation's 50th anniversary.

Luke's Lodge contains two large second-floor rooms -- one for senior high youth and one for junior high, restrooms with shower facilities for accommodating overnight guests, classrooms, lounge, worship area with all the electronics and an office suite for the four youth staff members whose offices are housed here.

Luke's Lodge will be used by the 225 senior and junior high-school aged youth who attend the church. Durand told Together that weekly programs average between 100 and 125 youth. He also said many youth have come back since the building was completed earlier this year. St. Luke's youth ministry lists 13 organized activities for senior and junior high aged youth ranging from traditional Sunday school to work camps and retreats. Nate Faris and Anne Oskay assist Durand in this ministry. Andy Engle ministers as a youth intern.

Youth and their Lightswitch praise band led worshipers in an hour-long consecration service. Youth and their parents sang songs including "Lord, I lift your name on high," "You make me move, Jesus" and "Trading my sorrow." Youth member Evan Daniluck delivered a tear-filled message thanking church members and God for "this awesome building" and testifying that "our God is an awesome God." He said, "You guys (members) have given money. I can't repay you." He said the building reminded him of Matthew 7:7 when Jesus asked his followers to ask, seek and knock. "We asked for a million dollars and now we have a building here -- WOW."

During the service four rooms were named after members Charles Brandt, Anne Johnson, Christian Rector and Chris Patton. Brandt was a member of St. Luke's in charge of construction who died suddenly during the time the building was under construction.

Senior Pastor Kent Millard concluded the consecration with communion and prayer.

Last updated on February 10, 2004

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