A Journey of Faith and Partnership
Every church project begins with a vision rooted in both faith and community. For Fairway Christian Church in The Villages, Florida, that vision was affirmed from the very start with a Bible Burying Ceremony — a powerful tradition that symbolizes blessing the space and confirming the congregation’s intentions for their new house of worship. For The Collage Companies, who have been privileged to build and expand countless churches and places of worship across Central Florida for more than four decades, moments like these reflect why we do what we do.
At Collage, our mission has always been to strengthen the foundation and fabric of the community, and our faith-based projects carry a unique meaning. These spaces are not only buildings — they are centers of hope, fellowship, and spiritual growth. With decades of experience, Collage has become a trusted partner for churches and ministries across Florida, bringing both technical expertise and a deep respect for the traditions and values of each congregation. We are committed to building places of worship that honor their purpose, enhance their ministry, and stand as lasting testaments to faith and community.
The Project: Expansion in Motion
The scope of the Fairway Christian Church project included adding 20,000 square feet to an existing 33,000-square-foot facility — all while the church remained in full-time operation. The expansion was carefully designed and executed to maximize classrooms, storage, and ministry space, ensuring the facility could continue to serve a growing congregation for decades to come.
Collage partnered with Building God’s Way (BGW), a national design and architectural firm specializing in faith-based facilities. Their involvement, together with Collage’s project management, ensured that the design reflected both the functional needs and the mission-driven heart of Fairway.
From the earliest planning meetings through construction changes, the Collage team worked closely with Fairway’s leadership. What began as an initial plan grew into something even greater as ideas were refined, space was optimized, and the project came to life in new ways. Check out this wonderful video from Chris Callahan from Fairway Christian Church -It’s Finished – Thank you for building with us!
Quote from the Video, Chris Callahan:
“When we first started with Collage, we thought we had a plan. But they showed us something even better — how we could use our property and our space more effectively. They walked with us through the changes, helping us maximize classrooms, storage, and ministry areas. We’re so grateful for their leadership and partnership.”
On September 28th, Fairway Christian Church celebrated the much-anticipated Grand Opening of its expanded campus. The event brought together the entire congregation, local dignitaries, members of the press, and other regional churches in a day filled with joy and gratitude. A ceremonial ribbon-cutting marked the official opening of the new space, followed by tours and moments of fellowship that showcased the transformation of the facility.
It was a powerful gathering — a great turnout from the local community, friends, and partners — with the congregation standing together in celebration of God’s provision and the future ministry impact this new campus will bring. The day was Christ-filled, joyful, and deeply memorable, honoring the journey from vision to completion.
Representing The Collage Companies were Jonathan Barres, Project Manager; James Kuhn, Project Superintendent; and Gary Vargas, Director of Church & Community Development. Also present were Chris Callahan, Church Administrator, and Dr. Jesse Kamm of Unseen Building Strategies, who joined in unveiling the expanded facility.
Shown Here Left to Right: Chris Callahan, Fairway Christian Church, Gary Vargas, Director of Church & Community Development (The Collage Companies), Jeff Swearingin, Director of Florida Church Planters and Dr. Jesse Kamm, President of Unseen Building Solutions (Owner Representative for Fairway Christian Church)
A Mission-Driven Partnership
Fairway Christian Church continues to live out its mission: “to GO into the community, SOW the Gospel, and GROW disciples who will change the world.” Located at the corner of Morse and 466 in The Villages, the church offers multiple worship services each weekend and a vibrant ministry for all ages.
For Collage, partnering with Fairway has been another opportunity to bring our faith-based expertise to life, helping create a space where truth and love connect — and where a community of Christ followers can glorify God.
Looking Ahead
The story of Fairway Christian Church’s expansion is more than a construction project; it is a testament to the power of collaboration, vision, and faith. From a Bible buried in the ground to a facility filled with worshippers on opening day, Collage is honored to have walked this journey alongside Fairway.
