As the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United States, many churches suffered losses in attendance and membership. However, Perry Hall Baptist Church (PHBC) was able to keep in-person services active (outside) while many other churches shut down. This enabled the church to not only maintain but to grow through the pandemic.
Meanwhile, while many local schools were shut down or in “virtual school,” the local independent schools, including Perry Hall Christian School (PHCS), were open and making adjustments to serve the educational needs of their students. The faith-based schools not only took advantage of this opportunity but also were able to capitalize on an increasingly faith-hostile environment in area public school systems.
Perry Hall Christian School celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2022 as Perry Hall Baptist Church was entering one of the healthiest seasons in its history. Having two healthy and growing organizations sharing aging facilities is an ongoing challenge, and planning for growth in a way that allows both to continue to thrive is essential. Both organizations needed an up-to-date, incremental, affordable approach to growth to accommodate current and future needs.
The result is a master plan that includes up to seven building areas. The initial project is anticipated to be a gymnasium and classroom building for PHCS and a new lobby and office area for PHBC. Future phases include PHCS: new lower school building, middle/high school expansion with specials, labs, and classrooms. PHBC: additional lobby space and restrooms for the church, expanded preschool and children’s ministry areas, and a counseling center.
