Description
This video interview can help congregations understand why planning for the future use of their property is important to their mission today. In this episode of Leading Ideas Talks Podcast, host Ann A. Michel interviews Mark Elsdon, author of two books about trends and transformations of congregational real estate. Elsdon believes that congregations need to respond to declining worship attendance and cultural changes in faith practices by connecting their core values with a community need that their property can meet.
To help congregations begin thinking about the future use of their property, Michel and Elsdon discuss examples of congregational property redevelopment, such as healthcare centers, affordable housing, commercial kitchens, and more. They also explore considerations for rural versus urban congregations, the importance of listening to your congregation’s community, key pitfalls to avoid, and how a congregation’s plan can start with existing or previous work.
Features
- 30 minutes
- Audio Player
- Download option
- Links to episodes on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Spotify
- Transcript
- Links to related resources
Recommended Audience
Congregations with underutilized or aging physical spaces.
Cost
Free
Practical Applications
- Share the interview with your congregation’s leadership team to introduce the idea of selling or redeveloping your property.
- Identify the first steps in your congregation’s plan for meeting a community need by applying the advice in the podcast.
About the Contributor
