Sound Footings – Summer 2023
I read a recent New York Times article in which the congregants of West Park Presbyterian Church in New York City have sought to partner with a real estate developer to construct luxury apartments on the site of their historic sanctuary. Ironically, it is the residents of the area who are trying to stop the potential demolition, demanding that the building be preserved. The church argues that the over $30 million realized from redevelopment would enable them to clothe, feed, house and educate far more people than its congregation is otherwise capable of doing. Working against them is the building’s designation as a city landmark, which places restrictions on changes to the property and its uses.
Among those speaking out against redevelopment are wealthy celebrities, few of whom participate in worship at the church. Meanwhile, the church faces ever-increasing costs of building maintenance, which are partially offset by a few not-for-profit tenants (who are also against demolition). The battle has been going on for nearly twenty years.
The situation invites many questions which sometimes arise in our own churches. Is the local church its building, its mission, or its people? What role should the surrounding community play in determining mission? What are the ground rules of partnering with not-for-profit tenants? At what point does it make sense for a church to relocate, redevelop or combine with another church?
There are no easy answers, and each case is different. We often are involved with churches wrestling with these questions. While we seek to remain neutral in the final decisions, we advise churches to always first revisit their missions when contemplating the capital requirements of building and maintaining facilities. Is the church clear on its current mission? Has its surrounding community changed significantly since the property was first constructed? Has the church adapted to serve its community?
Real estate appraisers follow the concept of “highest and best use” in determining a property’s value. You can borrow from this practice by reviewing the above questions from time-to-time to make your church’s mission and its God-entrusted assets are properly aligned. Over the coming months we’ll be putting together some resources to help you do that. In the meantime, please let us know if you have experiences to share – we’d love to add your stories!
Like many of you, our staff just returned from Annual Conference in Roanoke. We were delighted to see many of you there and to meet some new friends. By seeing everyone together in person, we are reminded of the many partnerships we are so fortunate to have. Sometimes we may miss the value of connection. Working for the Foundation gives us a close-up view of ministries that are working well around the conference. In this issue we’ll share some of those successes.
Just as some individuals may be blessed with more resources than others, so it is true with churches. At my church in Richmond, we just celebrated the tenth anniversary of a partnership with smaller churches in another part of the city. We’re able to share experiences and resources, like the use of our larger fellowship hall for certain events. But more often it is about sharing ministry, both as a way to understand each other and overcome social barriers. It was nice to see old friends and tell stories of some of the things we have done together.
For most people, summer is a time to take a break. No matter how busy you are, it is important to do so. We all need rest. Often it is only by being away that you are able to reflect on the good work you are doing, and to envision new ways to bring your mission to fruition. We hope that you are able to spend time with family, friends, or on your own, renewing your spirit and the gift of God’s presence.
Look forward to seeing you on the trail!
By Bo Bowden, President
Virginia United Methodist Foundation
Image courtesy of New York Post
