Bridgeview Church, off of Co. Rd. 11 in Big Lake, recently won a national award for its newly completed expansion. 

About the Expansion

The expansion was completed in December 2021. Two wings and a parking lot expansion were added to the original structure to accommodate for the church’s growth.

The additions included lots of extra space for kids’ classrooms and youth ministry. 

“The only part of the building that wasn’t touched was the kitchen,” said Dan Johnson, project manager for the construction and church member. 

Classrooms which are separated according to kids’ age line the hallway of one of the new wings. At the end of the hallway is a worship area for older kids, those in first through fifth grade. There is even a sensory room at the back of this worship area, for those kids who are overwhelmed by too much stimulus. According to Pastor Steve Royalty, the room is used every week.

A patio area with hanging lights and fire pits make up the section between the two new wings of the church. 

Finishings around the church were designed to have a modern lodge look. 

Pastor Royalty was excited about the expansion, saying it gave the church the opportunity to offer new ministries and other services. Mom groups, kids karate, and other gatherings are also being offered in the new expanded space. 

COVID-19

Construction occurred during the worst of the pandemic, which ended up working in favor of the church, Pastor Royalty claimed. Without the congregation tracking mud into the building every week, construction was able to continue without much interruption. As area residents turned to watching Sunday services online, church membership continued to grow. 

Now Bridgeview is happy to welcome back its congregation to in-person worship, and nearly 600 people attended Easter Sunday services this year. 

Award

The building recently won the National Frame Building Association’s 2021 Building of the Year Award. This award considers buildings around the nation, and determined the church to be the best of the nominees in construction for 2021. 

Ron Knapper of Lester Buildings (Lester Prairie) and Joe Lemperes of Lemperes Building (Becker) were very pleased with the outcome. The two companies collaborated to create the beautiful building. Knapper said it was a true honor to even be nominated for the award, let alone to win. 

The expansion also won a recognition award from Lester Buildings. 

The two awards were presented to Pastor Royalty Monday.