Why Forward…Why Now?
You now live in one of the fastest-growing counties in Alabama.
Everywhere we look in Cullman County, we see signs of rapid growth—bulldozers clearing land, new homes and apartments rising, families moving in. But behind the bricks and beams is something far more important: a growing number of people who need hope, purpose, and a life-changing relationship with Jesus Christ. And we are their neighbors.
What we’re witnessing isn’t just expansion; it’s the rebirth of a mission field. And Northbrook Baptist Church was made for a moment like this.
Back in 2004, when we moved to our current location, Northbrook stepped out in faith. We were led by visionary believers who saw more than a piece of property, they saw a place where the gospel could take root and thrive. Their boldness positioned us to grow into the church we are today.
Now, we believe God is calling us to step forward again.
As our community enters a new season of growth, we have a strategic opportunity to reintroduce Northbrook to the neighbors God is bringing to our doorstep. The Forward Initiative is our next bold step—an invitation to dream, to invest, and to reimagine how our church campus can serve as a spiritual home and gospel light for generations to come.
Let’s move Forward...By faith. On mission. Together.
What’s the Scope of the Project?
Renovating the Caring Center
The Caring Center is a front door to the community. Renovating this current space makes it more welcoming and effective, keeping it central, accessible, more affordable and ready to serve as a trusted gospel presence in Cullman.
Refreshing the Commons area & Worship Center
For 20 years, these spaces have shaped Sundays at Northbrook. Refreshing our commons and worship center prepares them for the next generation—welcoming guests, fostering connection, and creating beautiful spaces where people can encounter God and be changed forever.
Reimagining the
Main Entrance
Our main entrance is the first impression for thousands passing by on Highway 157. A new monument sign and extended canopy will clearly identify Northbrook, lift high the cross, and warmly invite our community to come and see what God is doing here.
What’s the Investment?
Project Estimate
The estimated cost of the project is approximately $3.5 million.
Debt Tolerance
The elders have approved a debt tolerance of up to $850,000 over 5-years, aligned with an existing but currently unused line item in our operating budget.
What are the Next Steps?
Pray
Pray for unity in our church as we process this initiative together, wisdom for our leaders as they work through project details, and guidance for your family as God calls you to trust him in this next season.
Prepare
Seek God and prepare your heart for what he might ask of you. Consider how he is calling you to invest your time, resources, and influence to move Forward. Pray with your family and think intentionally about your role in this journey.
Participate
Step into the story God is writing at Northbrook. On Sunday, August 24, take our Readiness Survey, designed to capture your top-of-mind perspective on our readiness to move Forward, shaping spaces where people will meet Jesus and be sent to reach the world.