The 2003 fire destroyed only the sanctuary portion, so the new sanctuary needed to function with the un-damaged three-floor educational wing, including matching floor levels. This presented the challenge of dealing with significant grade changes, in addition to a tight site which had to accommodate a larger sanctuary than the destroyed facility.

The new space was designed to actively help worship for this specific congregation. That was accomplished through subtle symbolism integrated into the design. The roof lines form a cruciform. The exterior spire was placed at the center of the interior ceiling cross, directly in front of the chancel. A skylight provides a natural glow. The eight-sided form of the balcony entrance recalls that the number eight represents rebirth and renewal. Chancel symbols were chosen by the church to represent classic Christian concepts.

In 2003, the sanctuary of this rural church was destroyed by fire. For the village of 2,200 residents the devastating fire ravaged the history as well as the heart of their community. The congregation in Sugarcreek dates to 1821, and the destroyed sanctuary had been dedicated in 1914.