The trend of converting underused houses of worship into affordable housing is sweeping America. California last year passed a law rewarding faith-based organizations that use their surplus properties to build 100 percent affordable housing. Maryland, New York and Virginia are…
‘Sustainable’ houses of worship are missing their best chance to save the planet
Today, fewer Americans belong to a house of worship or attend services regularly. The decline in religious participation offers challenges — and opportunities — for congregations determined to pursue environmental sustainability. The teachings of most religions and denominations encourage, if…
How are houses of worship like retail stores? Changing channels of distribution
When a house of worship declines — and many are — the congregation tends to blame a dull pastor, an uninspiring music director or a drafty building with a bad sound system. Suppose the reason, more often than not, is…
What would Jane Jacobs do? Toward a new model for houses of worship
Cities need to prepare for a wave of declining houses of worship. While faith institutions, at least the Christian ones, have been asking What Would Jesus Do? municipalities need to get them to ask another question: What Would Jane Jacobs…
7 dos and don’ts when considering the redevelopment of church property
More and more houses of worship are shuttering their doors. Declining membership, increased internet streaming and COVID-19 pandemic pressures all have conspired against traditional, steepled structures. Faith communities are trying to hang on and even prosper by analyzing how to…