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Models of Co-Usage of Church Buildings

 

Last month, TUCC met with 155 members of UCC and Anglican congregations in a two hour workshop to discuss how rural churches use their space. The discussions started out with a presentation of research done by Faith & the Common Good. The study focused on the degree to which church buildings house non-profit organizations. Check out the study here and the video recording of the workshop here.

In reviewing the session and feedback, we noted that co-usage of a church building (between congregations from the same or of different denominations) was by far the most discussed issue in the 15 breakout groups. We have identified a number of options to consider Click on the links as provided and access information about examples we have gathered:

Orillia United Church have reconfigured and renovated their sanctuary to allow for community events.
How to start the process? The following activities can be undertaken right away:
  • Review how you are currently using your building(s). How many hours are the different rooms of the building being used? This will enable your leadership team to better understand the use of your facilities and to identify new opportunities.
  • Gather stories from your community of faith’s members about ways in which they have experienced the building’s usage today and in the past. These stories will demonstrate the richness of activities that have been undertaken and help you to think imaginatively about potential future usage
  • Find out how your community perceives your building. Do they know what is going on in the building? The feedback we received regarding our previous posting has shown us that in many communities there is still a lack of understanding around what goes on in church buildings

If you would like to learn more about this process, please contact us; we are happy to provide guidance. The first meeting is free.

Training and resources to equip leaders to become missional in outlook and practice check out the website of The Innovative Ministry Centre (IMC) at TUCC
Katja Brittain - katja@tucc.ca
 
Katja Brittain joined TUCC in 2018. With Master degrees in management and theology from universities in Germany and Scotland, Katja’s work with churches is informed by experience in both the public and private sectors. Building on years of research and networking, Katja helps congregations balance the need for revenue with the use of property as an asset that supports the congregation’s mission.
The Toronto United Church Council works with the church community to connect resources with ministry. Offering access to professional advice, financial support and leadership development, Council helps our church address the social and spiritual challenges of the day.

Contact us:
Toronto United Church Council
24-30 Wertheim Court
Richmond Hill, ON
L4B 1B9
Tel: 905-771-5124
Toll Free: 1-800-235-8822
Email: mail@tucc.ca

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