GSA Transfers Deed for Federal Building to First Baptist Church of Hammond

James 5:16b says, "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." For six years the prayers of the righteous pelted Heaven with a very special request: the acquisition of the Federal Building on State Street in Hammond. As always, God's timing is perfect. What seemed at times like a process mired in setbacks proved instead to be a study in prayer and perseverance. On Wednesday, April 1, 2009, the deed for the Federal Building was transferred from the GSA to our church, completing the last piece of paperwork and making it officially the property of the First Baptist Church of Hammond. According to a press release from the GSA, "The purchase price was reviewed with no objections by the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform of the U.S. House of Representatives." It's proof that faith not only moves mountains, it can even provoke congress to a vote, which proved to be necessary for this transaction to occur. When Brother Schaap became pastor of our church eight years ago, the Federal Building was still just that–a federal courthouse. When it became vacant in 2002, its size and proximity to the church made it a natural fit, and it wasn't long before Pastor Schaap had transferred a vision for the building to his people. This neoclassical structure has a rich history. Built in 1906 and twice expanded through the years, it served as a federal courthouse, post office, and sheriff's department until the new courthouse building opened a few blocks away.

 

The Administrative Office Building, as it is now called, will serve as the hub of administrative operations for the church. The 43,000-square-foot structure sits on a one-acre lot and includes parking for 71 cars. Virtually all departments will relocate to the four-story building, including Christian Womanhood (a ministry currently operating out of Hyles-Anderson College) and 90.5 WRTW-FM, the church's new radio station. As Brother Schaap has mentioned, the consolidation of administrative operations into one building will free up pre-existing building space for more Sunday school classes, and, thus, for church growth. Much effort has been occurring behind the scenes, as construction crews have begun preparing the building for occupancy. After six dormant years, water damage has been evident throughout the building, and much damage is visible. While upgrades and renovations take place, special attention is being given to preserve the historic integrity of the building.

 

The papers finalizing the sale were signed on March 16, 2009, and the deed was formally transferred on April 1, 2009. Brother Eddie Lapina, the administrative pastor of First Baptist Church, estimates an occupancy date of late summer or early fall.

 

At the formal transferring of the deed to the building, Mr. O'Bradovic of the GSA commented on the spring weather and then added, "I think it's spring time for this building, too!"