Chapter 1: The Vision for Community Change

When I first considered integrating woodworking into church activities, my main thought was about how the skills of older generations could be passed down to the youth. If someone in the community wants to dispose of furniture, it could easily be donated to the church, where a dedicated group could refurbish, repair, and either sell or repurpose these items.

There are numerous collaborative projects the group could undertake, such as constructing an addition to the church, crafting custom tables, or building outdoor swings. I recently saw a listing on Craigslist that sparked an idea for a community project. Have you heard of the tiny house trend?

People are increasingly disillusioned with the notion of living in oversized homes. They toil tirelessly to afford a space where they spend only a few hours before returning to work just to pay for it. The energy and financial burden of maintaining such large houses detracts from family time and fosters a reliance on foreign oil, which is a broader concern for society.

While I’m not suggesting that large homes are inherently negative, if there’s a villain in the housing market, it might just be a developer residing in a sprawling mansion. The tiny house movement, often sensationalized by media, focuses on homes as small as 100 square feet, which certainly creates buzz. However, we should also consider the value of more substantial, yet affordable homes ranging from 1200 to 1800 square feet, which are free from overwhelming debt and resource depletion.

Now, shifting gears to actionable ideas for the church: why not build tiny homes?

I spotted a log cabin kit for sale online that exemplified this concept. An everyday individual, who enjoys working with his hands, purchased the kit and constructed a 13-foot-wide by 22-foot-long by 10-foot-high log cabin, listing it for $5,000. He managed to build seven cabins, turning his hobby into a side business that could generate an additional $35,000.

While nearly 300 square feet might be too limited for a family, consider the potential outcomes of such a collaborative building effort.

• First, it fosters fellowship within your congregation.
• Second, envision the cabins as a backdrop for the events you host, serving as both a conversation starter and community engagement tool.
• Third, they could inspire your congregation, offering a plethora of sermon topics related to building homes and community.
• Finally, these cabins could serve as a beacon of hope for the community, such as providing shelter for the homeless or housing for newlyweds or seniors seeking independence while remaining close to family.

What other ideas come to mind regarding this community-building initiative?

Don't limit your imagination to cabins alone; there are designs for mini-Victorian homes for those who desire a touch of elegance without the hefty price tag. You could customize dimensions, add lofts, or even create outdoor decks. By placing two cabins together in an L shape, you can maximize space and create inviting outdoor areas.

One exciting prospect involves developing a pocket community. Acquire a plot of land within the city, construct 6 to 8 cabins centered around a communal space. I’ve seen examples where all front porches face a shared fire pit or fountain, but simplicity also works wonders. These cabins could be sold to newlyweds or anyone interested in a community-oriented lifestyle.

Does this concept feel a bit nostalgic? Certainly, but that doesn’t diminish the human desire for connection.

Let's also revisit the idea of refurbishing old furniture and integrating new pieces into your cabin projects. Imagine including handmade wooden tables, chairs, shelves, or swings in the cabins.

I’m not advocating that the church enter the cabin construction business; rather, I propose that it deeply engages in community-building efforts. Cabin building on church grounds could energize your congregation and positively impact the community. You could even auction a cabin to members who enjoy hunting or want a backyard retreat.

Cabins can range from simple structures to elaborate designs that become talking points in the neighborhood. I find the notion of donating a cabin to those in need especially compelling, as it could enhance the church's visibility and engagement within the community.

How else might woodworking at your church strengthen relationships within your congregation? After all, Jesus was a carpenter. Shouldn’t we continue the legacy of his work?

I’m continually pondering ways to enhance small-town America, and this is part of a series dedicated to improving our world. If you have suggestions or thoughts, please feel free to share below or reach out via email.

This first video, "A Practical Guide on How To Change Your World with John Maxwell," offers insightful strategies on making a difference in your community through actionable steps.

In the second video, "Change Your World with John C. Maxwell," you'll discover motivational insights that can inspire you to lead transformative initiatives in your community.