Join us this Sunday, January 12th, for another community forum time when members of the Sustainable Mission Team will lead us in a more in-depth discussion around our building/property as an asset for mission. This concept was introduced at our last Sustainable Mission community forum time on December 15th. During that time, Rector Lisa, Michael Morrow, and Rena Turnham of the Sustainable Mission Team presented another look at the Building Reserve Study (BRS) and an update on our financial picture. St. John’s current pledge-related and operating budget condition is solid, now and into the near term. Highlights of the BRS and their implications were also shared. The BRS indicates the need for significant financial investment in the upkeep and maintenance of our building, which will result in the need for a capital campaign in the near future. Given these costs, the Sustainable Mission Team is now in the process of gathering specific information including relative costs etc. related to several options for St. John’s.
We began to talk about the concept of our building/property/location as an asset for mission:
St. John’s Mission Statement:
“We celebrate the gift of Christian community and welcome all, without distinction, to share the joy and pain of life’s passages. We commit ourselves to personal and spiritual maturity, both traditional and innovative worship, the healthy nurturing of children, and reaching out, beyond the Church, seeking Christ in all persons.”
Given St. John’s mission, as stated above, how might our building and its location help or hinder our ability to live this out today and into the future?
Below are the questions that were entertained by the parish members present on December 15. Here is what we learned that morning:
Q1: What about our building/location is important to you, and why? How does our building feel to you/how do you experience it?
- Sacred and Welcoming Atmosphere: The sanctuary is beautiful, warm, sacred, and with good acoustics and a sense of mystery and transcendence, which fosters creative and Spirit-filled worship experiences.
- Inclusive Community: The building is welcoming to diverse political perspectives and the LGBTQ community.
- Neighborhood Connection: The location near Lake Harriet and Linden Hills fosters a “neighborhood church” feel, with easy access for many who live nearby.
- Community and Gathering: The building enables a sense of community and provides spaces for meaningful gatherings (i.e.: parish hall, library) and community engagement (with areas like the gallery serving as hubs for volunteer and justice work.)
- Flexibility and Usability: The building offers a variety of gathering spaces and functional areas and flexible spaces for music and CYF programming, though some could be optimized further (i.e.: office wing).
- Historical and Aesthetic Value: The history, red doors, and visible beauty of the building attract newcomers and create a sense of sacredness and tradition.
- Practical Features: Proximity to public transport, good natural light, and functional areas like the kitchen, bathrooms, and parish hall support ministry and hospitality.
Q2: What do you find difficult or lacking about our building/location, and why?
- Parking and Accessibility: Parking is a major issue, especially for those not living nearby or with mobility challenges.
- Space Constraints: Insufficient space for Sunday programming, music rehearsals, intergenerational activities, and dedicated children/youth rooms.
- Daycare and Church Use: The lower level’s daycare use sometimes limits flexibility for church activities.
- Diversity and Inclusivity: Stained glass and imagery in the sanctuary do not reflect diversity or nature.
- Infrastructure and Maintenance: No air conditioning, outdated A/V systems, and high building maintenance costs.
- Geographic Location: Distant from areas of the city with greater needs, potentially limiting outreach impact.
- Lack of Dedicated Spaces: No areas for housing the unhoused or designated intergenerational activities.
We will be asking these same questions of staff and those who have not had a chance to weigh in. We will keep everyone updated. Questions or concerns may be directed to our Minister for Sustainable Mission, Rena Turnham. Please continue to pray for the team, the vestry, and the Spirit’s guidance during this important time in the life of St. John’s.
