Transforming Aging Spiritual Structures to Unleash Growth
Spiritual buildings play a pivotal role in fostering community and spiritual growth. They stand as symbolic anchors, weaving a tapestry of shared values, beliefs, and cultural identity within a community. Some churches and temples have stood tall for decades and even centuries.
Beyond their architectural significance, they provide a sanctuary for individuals seeking solace, reflection, and connection with something greater than themselves. However, the passage of time can cast a shadow, turning them into aging monuments that may inadvertently stifle rather than foster community vibrancy. What was once a cornerstone of the community’s faith may now be the center of challenges and missed opportunities for a congregation.
Navigating Obstacles Confronted by Maturing Buildings
Lack of Congregation Participation + Engagement
Many communities host weekly meetings and opportunities for fellowship amongst those of similar ages or interests. From youth groups to young-adult meet ups and religious studies - it’s important for spiritual spaces to foster fellowship for those of all ages and backgrounds.
An older building may not allow for the dynamic environment necessary to cultivate these connections and may result in a decline of member engagement or attendance. It’s important to acknowledge building limitations. Request congregation buy-in through engaging congregation members in dialogue so leadership can better understand their needs, seeking input on how to foster genuine connections.
Aging Buildings May Pose Saftey Concerns
Don’t compromise member safety for momentary savings. Apart from the needs of a growing or evolving congregation, members may also suffer from aging buildings. With some churches and temples boasting decades and almost centuries of standing, it’s important to maintain the building and prevent issues such as leaking roofs, crumbling facades, and weakened foundations.
Poor accessibility for those with physical or cognitive disabilities
Older churches and temples may not be equipped to accommodate individuals with varying disabilities and needs. A lack of ramps, elevators, or available rooms may create barriers and limit the ability to fully participate in services and community activities.
A Shortage of Young Families and a Surplus of Elders
Young families often search for opportunities for their children to get involved in a community that holds the same culture, tradition or values. When evaluating a church, they may look for other young families as well as ease of attendance and participation. One of the many challenges older temples and chapels face is the ability to cater to both its families as well as its elders.
Narrow hallways, lack of youth programming or dedicated nurseries for babies may hinder families from staying. Likewise, older members of the congregation may struggle to move around with walkers or wheelchairs. Furthermore, older buildings may not be equipped with clear signage, inclusive restrooms or well-lit spaces. Attending services should be convenient and enjoyable. Members should be easily able to move around the building and access rooms, the sanctuary, restrooms, and small groups without worrying.
Get Aligned with Members and Leadership
The best way to navigate obstacles due to older buildings is to create alignment between leadership and its congregation. Some members may be resistant to change in order to preserve the rich culture and history within its walls. Others may desire radical updates. Work with members to understand what issues they are facing and how these can lead to creating a clear and concise vision of next steps for your church renovation project.
Green Road Synagogue Embraced the Call for Change with a New Shul
Since 1970, GRS has been a mainstay within its community. However, like many buildings which have stood tall for over 50 years, it was showing signs of aging, and many spaces were unusable because of water damage. Membership was stagnant and the community needed to embrace change in order to secure its future.
Through a process of thoughtful discovery, studioTECHNE worked with the community to truly understand it’s painpoints. Our Discovery Process identified a number of ways to foster growth, worship, and build thier community, while preserving their rich heritage and history.
Today, a new 38,000 sq. ft building sits on the same site and has become a vibrant center of activity for the community. The new spaces have created unique opportunities for growth and have allowed members of the congregation to engage with each other in deeper more meaningful ways. We preserved the important elements of their history and culture, and provided a place for their congregation to thrive and grow.
Contact studioTECHNE to learn more
If you or your congregation is in need of a transformative touch or an expert look at your building’s existing structure, give studioTECHNE | Architects in Cleveland, OH a call. We service the areas of Cleveland, OH, Columbus, OH, Washington, DC, Philadelphia, PA, Miami, FL, and beyond! Give us a call or contact us today.