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.