Space Update

Knowing that New Journey’s current lease agreement will conclude at the end of this year, 2025 council members began to look at options. In late 2025, New Journey learned of a potential space-sharing option on the Fountains United Methodist Church (FUMC) campus. On January 22, 2026, a few NJLC council and transition team members were invited (Mike Wilson, Mike Bartanen, Ron Bigley, Cindi Brady, Kris Bartanen, and Pr. Tim Hansen) to FUMC to look at the available space with the Fountains council president and pastor.

Since, at that point, nothing had been proposed in writing, then New Journey Council president Mike Wilson sent a request for proposal (RFP) to the Fountains to learn the details of what was being proposed. The response to the RFP was received on February 12 and, following a few clarifications, was shared by Kris Bartanen with the current Council on March 4, in preparation for the March 10 Council meeting. 

Given New Journey's space limits (for example, no office or private consultation space for a pastor, storage limits); mission spending plan constraints in the context of rent for current space; and the expressed hope of the preponderance of listening circle participants that New Journey "still be here" in 5-10 years, the Council is exploring the option of space sharing carefully. We are also looking at options with our landlord with regard to our current space.

Council will keep the congregation apprised; will be open to members’ input; and, ultimately, will bring any recommendation to the congregation for its consideration and vote.