Congregations open up their buildings to serve children, the hungry, the homeless and others in need. Sacred places stabilize neighborhoods, strengthen commercial districts and significantly add to the economic health of our communities. All of this is endangered, however, when congregations can no longer afford to maintain these aging buildings. Partners has developed a family of highly-acclaimed resources to help congregations connect better to their communities, raise capital funds in new ways and preserve their historic building for future generations. We are the nation's only non-sectarian, nonprofit organization dedicated the sound stewardship and active community use of America's older religious properties.
From Skeptic to Believer

At first, Rev. Abril Goforth, Pastor of Buckingham United Methodist Church in Garland, Texas, was skeptical. Would PSP’s Strategic Investment in Sacred Places (SiSP), be just another trendy attempt at church revitalization?

As she and her congregation got engaged, her attitude quickly shifted.

The first task in SiSP is to write a comprehensive history of one’s faith community. When Goforth and other leaders were finished, they wove that saga into an Advent worship series called “Journey to Bethlehem.”

“We began in the building space where people initially worshipped after the church’s foundation. During that service, many talked about our origins. Then we moved down the hallway, into the education wing, and finally into the sanctuary, ending where we now worship. It was a moving and powerful reenactment of our journey, helping us celebrate our history.”

In January of this year, the church’s leadership had a planning meeting, not always the most exciting date on a church calendar. But Asset Mapping, a skill they learned in SiSP, made all the difference.

“We brainstormed about our gifts and resources, posting them on a wall. It became clear how many teachers and school administrators are part of this church. This natural affinity led us to adopt Golden Meadows, a nearby Elementary School. We are providing extra supplies, tutoring, and recently assisted a family whose home had burned. It’s a wonderful outreach.”

Asset mapping sparked another idea. The church has a swath of green space surrounding it, and though it harbors a small community garden, the land was underutilized.

“We thought of all the people in our community,” says Goforth, “who walk their dogs here, taking selfies, enjoying the oasis. Why not put up a sign that says You and your dogs are welcome! along with a bag dispenser. This simple gesture made our grounds more inviting to the neighborhood.”

Finally, Buckingham’s leadership team conducted a thorough building assessment, including what it will cost to replace a sanctuary wall damaged by years of water seepage. The estimate, even after insurance, was sizeable.

“I thought this would cause considerable angst,” says Goforth. “Instead, our leadership said ‘let’s do this, even if we have to take out a loan!’ It showed a renewed vigor and confidence about the future.”

Reclaiming our history, understanding our assets, welcoming the community, stirring hope for the future: SiSP has helped Buckingham UMC ignite new spirit and initiative in each of these areas.


Goforth’s skepticism has morphed into gratitude.