Wing dedicated for education-centered church

GIG HARBOR
Members of Agnus Dei Lutheran Church packed the sanctuary and flowed out into the narthex for the Jan. 23 service dedicating an education wing.
"All Are Welcome" was sung at full throttle as the congregation officially opened the 6,000-square-foot wing. The Rev. Sheryl Biegert led worshipers from room to room as they sang and prayed.
Years ago, the congregation made a commitment to become an education-centered church. Its Little Lambs preschool, a vibrant adult education program and a community-centered vacation Bible school magnified the need for more educational space.
Besides classrooms, the new space includes a conference room and parish hall.
In 2003, the congregation purchased 2.5 acres adjacent to the church, undertook a capital campaign that raised $600,000 and received a loan from the ELCA Mission Investment Fund. The total cost was $1.75 million, which included payment for future construction.
"This is a great day in the life of our congregation," Pastor Biegert said.