ReImagining Church Spaces
Churches across Canada are at a crossroads. With many congregations contemplating moving, closing, or merging, the question arises: How can these sacred spaces continue to serve and transform their communities? This topic calls for innovation and creative approaches to church properties.
Intentional Stewardship
Thousands of churches are wrestling with decisions about their buildings, and as one of the largest real estate holders collectively, the church has a unique opportunity—and responsibility—to steward these assets for community benefit. The challenge is not just to maintain these buildings but to consider their purpose and potential.
In his blog post, "Church Redevelopment: What, Why, How?" Jason McKinney, a theological educator and Toronto-based Anglican priest, outlines a compelling vision for church redevelopment. McKinney underscores the urgency of redevelopment given the rapid decline in religious affiliation in Canada. According to the National Trust for Canada, 9,000 church buildings are projected to be converted over the next decade. This staggering number reflects the growing demographic of "nones"—those identifying with no religion—which has increased from 4% in 1971 to nearly 25% in 2011. With lower attendance and decreased revenues, many churches are struggling with the costs of deferred maintenance and aging infrastructures.
This feels like a bleak reality, but McKinney says this challenge is an opportunity to reimagine ministry by rethinking how we use our church buildings. What if we viewed church properties as key assets in a holistic vision of contextual ministry? Beyond financial considerations, what if we also considered the ecological, social, and spiritual potential of our buildings?
Where could that kind of thinking lead?
Successful Transformations
Many churches have successfully transformed their properties into spaces that provide essential services, community gathering spots, and even affordable housing.
A few examples:
Community Gardens
Kortright Presbyterian Church, Guelph, Ontario - https://kortrightchurch.org/ministries/food-security
The Salvation Army, Burlington, Ontario - https://salvationarmy.ca/ontario/2023/05/fresh-fruit-and-vegetables-take-root-at-burlington-community-church/
Hope Community Church, Courtice, Ontario - https://www.hopefellowship.ca/bless/hope-community-garden/
Safe Injection Sites
St. Pauls Presbyterian Church, Hamilton, Ontario - https://www.thespec.com/news/hamilton-region/safe-injection-site-finds-new-temporary-home-at-hamilton-church/article_1a305d71-0668-59d6-918a-06cab273cafd.html
Emergency Warming Center
First Baptist Church, Toronto, Ontario - https://www.simcoereformer.ca/news/local-news/church-out-serving-opens-simcoe-warming-centre
Grace Family Church, Sudbury, Ontario - https://northernontario.ctvnews.ca/sudbury-church-partners-with-city-to-help-homeless-stay-warm-1.6733000
Journey Church, Calgary, Alberta - https://www.myjourney.church/warming-centre
St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Kitchener, Ontario - https://globalnews.ca/news/8431767/kitchener-shelter-homelessness-st-andrews-presbyterian-church/
Affordable Housing
St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Kitchener, Ontario - https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/kitchener-waterloo/lutheran-church-affordable-housing-1.7010399
Glengate Alliance Church, Niagara Falls, Ontario - https://www.niagarathisweek.com/news/affordable-housing-proposed-for-glengate-alliance-property/article_7f538429-2154-5b37-ac37-6ec7d2b76cec.html
Grandview Church, Vancouver - https://coherehousing.com/
Community Centre
St. Matthews United Church, Toronto, Ontario - https://www.stmattsunited.com/
All Saints Anglican Church, Waterloo, Ontario - https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/kitchener-waterloo/all-saints-church-community-centre-waterloo-1.6679336
Performance Venue
Knox Presbyterian Church, Stratford, Ontario - https://www.copperlight.ca/
Paris Presbyterian Church, Paris, Ontario - https://forpariscentre.ca/
Trinity-St. Paul’s United Church, Toronto, Ontario - https://www.nowplayingtoronto.com/venue/trinity-st-pauls-united-church/
Knox Preformance Centre, Toronto, Ontario - https://www.knoxcentre.ca/
Theological Perspectives
The theological foundations of these decisions are deeply rooted in scripture and church tradition. Biblical principles of stewardship and community guide churches to see their properties not just as physical spaces, but as resources for ministry and mission. McKinney emphasizes the importance of rooting the redevelopment process in prayer and reflection on scripture. He advises churches to understand their buildings' roles in their ministry and community, engage stakeholders, and consult with denominational leaders and community partners.
The United Reformed Church Buildings Forum says feelings about using sacred spaces for secular purposes - like turning a worship space into a badminton court during the week, can be deeply visceral. Some fear it cheapens a special space, others worry about divine disapproval. This diversity of views underscores that there is no single vision of what a church building could or should be. Instead, churches should reflect on the theological implications of their buildings and ensure they align with their statements of faith.
Practical Strategies
Churches considering redevelopment should assess their property, engage with community stakeholders, and envision new uses that meet local needs. Navigating the legal and financial aspects of property redevelopment requires careful planning and consultation to ensure sustainable and impactful outcomes.
Join the Conversation with Dr. David Kupp
This vital conversation about the future of church spaces will be explored in depth by Dr. David Kupp at the Creative Ways Conference on June 1 in Waterloo, Ontario. Dr. Kupp brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in theology as a Research Fellow at Wycliffe College.
Dr. Kupp will share practical strategies and theological insights on how churches can reimagine their spaces to better serve their communities. He will discuss the importance of intentional stewardship and how churches can transform their properties into assets that foster community wellbeing.
Join us in person or online to engage in this important dialogue about the future of church spaces. For more information and to register, click the link below. Be part of this vital discussion and discover how your church can become a beacon of hope and center of community life.
Register Here
By reflecting on these ideas and engaging in thoughtful planning, churches can transform their properties into vibrant community hubs, ensuring their continued relevance and impact in a changing world.