Facility Tour: Vintage Faith Church
A few weekends ago my husband and I were in Santa Cruz so we attended Vintage Faith Church. I have heard about this church for years due to word of mouth and also being familiar with Dan Kimball’s writings. So we thought we would stop by! And as is my habit, I brought my camera along and before services started walked around shooting pictures.
I really believe that the environment reflects as well as influences the values of the church. This was very evident at Vintage Faith. I really like their web page that answers “What makes this church unique?” On there they mention things like reflecting ancient roots and values of early Christianity (while translating it to Santa Cruz culture) and having arts and creativity in their blood. They have been very intentional in creating an environment that communicates and encourages these values.
For one thing, the church is in an old brick church building. That alone is unusual — to find brick in earthquake-prone California!
Visibility is great. It’s right on the corner of a major intersection, right off the freeway. It sure is hard to get to when you’re coming from town, though. Just a heads up if you’re visiting… keep a sharp eye out if you need to turn left to get the church! It’s kind of confusing.
Anyway, once there I really appreciated their clear signage everywhere.
It became evident to me at once that this church was not your typical church environment. Ironwork on the walls and a pew sitting outside. Hmm… definitely a unique flavor.
The church has a coffeeshop.
If this doesn’t say Santa Cruz and California flavor, I don’t know what does!
Man, if I had to study, I would go here!
Such a great environment to study, meet with God, or chat with friends!
The place totally had a coffeehouse vibe that encouraged creativity.
Right outside was a courtyard — more places to sit, eat or drink or chat.
The decor is funky and eclectic but totally works!
Heading a little further down, we saw the sign for the children and youth areas.
The room used appeared to be a gym. A lobby was created with pipe and drape.
Computers for checking in. They use the same system my church does — Church Community Builder!
Love the seating area with the oversized cushions. Seeing as I have balance issues, I think it wouldn’t be long until I toppled out of those! I’m not exactly sure what the seating was for but it added to the atmosphere!
Hallways were simple with minimal signage.
Rooms were functional.
There was artwork everywhere.
This was the entrance to the office — lobby and receptionist area, I think? It was actually dark in there but I lightened up the photo in Photoshop.
This appeared to be their video overflow room. Not sure what it is during other times. A meeting room?
The view from the other side… the video displayed a live feed of the sanctuary.
There was a sign that said “10 minute meeting.” After service they invited us to attend the 10 minute meeting just to meet people and get to know a little more about the church. It was held in this room.
Art all on the hallways.
Different flavors, different styles. Nice track lighting!
Even the bathroom was totally funky! Pink tile and black decorative elements.
I can’t remember what this room was for.
But I totally loved the oversized furniture on the other side! How cool is that!
There were stained glass windows in the doors of what appeared to be an entrance of some kind.
This was the actual lobby. The table below had materials for newcomers and about the church.
On the other side was an iron candleholder with various candles lit. A container was there for people to deposit cards and giving.
A recycle bin — very important in California! I liked how all their signage was very consistent.
The worship center was an old sanctuary, complete with stained glass windows and red carpet.
Here’s how the front looked.
I love the blend of old and new. Old pews and sofas, with modern chairs for the main seating.
Here’s the “new.” Soundboard in the back.
Along the walls were paintings of the values of the church.
These were between stained glass windows.
I had to change my camera exposure to capture the artwork in the windows. It’s amazing how the human eye can look at the white walls and see the stained glass at the same time, something difficult for cameras to capture in one shot.
The stage was decorated along the theme of “Pursuing Character,” their current sermon series.
In the corner was a prayer cove, where people could go up afterwards to receive prayer.
On the other side was a cross and painting. Someone told me there was something significant about the painting, with people’s names in it. There seemed to be a strong sense of community there.
New and old… graphics were a blend of both.
The worship service was relationally-oriented, simple, heartfelt and meaningful. It was also totally packed. I think every seat was taken. Afterwards I was very impressed at how quickly they followed up with an email and later a handwritten note. (I’m in charge of our follow-up team at my church, so I am always interested in how other churches do this.) I appreciated the experience and how intentional this church is in living out its vision and values.
