A Growing Congregation

2000-2005 | A Growing CongregationA Sanctuary in Harmony with its Environment

As the 800-seat Pinnacle Sanctuary rose from the ground, the congregation participated in construction milestones, signing their names and Bible passages to subflooring, wallboard and other structures.

Cave Creek artist Sam Terry was commissioned to create a cross for the sanctuary as a work of religious art. After months of work the 40 foot tall cross, made of native desert ironwood, Arizona copper, and polished African walnut stood as if growing from flowing waters of baptism and the pulpit. This work has distinguished Pinnacle in the community since it was unveiled. The same artist design stained glass depicting the Holy Spirit around the cross.

Christmas season 2001 celebrated in the nearly-complete Sanctuary was particularly poignant, as the nation was still reeling and healing from the terror attacks of September 11, 2001.

The City of Scottsdale was as proud of the new facility as the congregation -- the Pinnacle Sanctuary was the city’s first ‘green church’ under the newly-adopted Green Building Program. The acoustically-significant space also boosted Pinnacle’s music program.

The Sanctuary became an important area concert venue, particularly after installation of the Richards, Fowkes & Co. Opus 14 pipe organ in 2005. Beyond the campus, Pinnacle’s mission activities included a trip to Mexico, Habitat for Humanity projects and continued support of Andre House, Heifer International and Vista del Camino programs.

2000

Pinnacle members participated in the Festival of Faith 2000 at BankOne Ballpark

In May 2000, Lisa Armstrong became the Director of Christian Education for Children and Youth September 2000 the City of Scottsdale issued the building permit for the new sanctuary 2001

Session votes to call Brent Hylton as Director of Music and Marilyn Hylton as Associate Director Pinnacle Sanctuary was dedicated on January 27, 2002 with Dr. Corbett, Dr. Holloran and the choir leading the congregation from the Chapel singing “We are Marching in the Light of God.”2002

Scottsdale Population: 202,705 New Scottsdale Mayor - Mary Manross

September 11 terrorist attacks in NYC, DC, Pennsylvania AZ Diamondbacks won the World Series, defeating the NY Yankees Loop 101 freeway was completed through Scottsdale

Dr. Duane Holloran retired Rev. Francis (Fran) W. Park became Pastoral Associate

2003

Pinnacle membership grew to 1,041 Pinnacle Theological Center established with Rev. Fran Park as Founding Chair Rev. MacHenry (Mac) George Schafer II began as Associate Pastor for Families and Adult Education

At 10th Anniversary, the Preschool had 175 students in 10 classes, with a staff of 29. Sabrina Ball named new Director 2004 2005

First Blessing of the Animals event was held in April 2005 The Chapel Garden is dedicated in memory of Herb Stanton

Space Shuttle Columbia Disaster Invasion of Iraq begins March 19 Facebook launches Pope John Paul II dies on April 2 Hurricane Katrina devastated Gulf Coast