Denominational Real Estate Expansion
The Coptic Orthodox Church of Michigan, has been proactively expanding its real estate footprint across the state by acquiring Catholic churches no longer in use. Church officials cited their growing membership, which recently surpassed 10,000 families. Developing buildings allows for establishing new parishes rather than renting space long-term. The Church purchased two former Catholic structures in Macomb County for roughly $1 million; one had been vacant for over five years before its sale. Although fundraising challenges remain, such investments strategically position the Coptic Church for long-term growth in Michigan.
Faith-Based Affordable Housing
A new report from the Urban Institute evaluates strategies for Nashville to form partnerships boosting its affordable housing stock. Religious organizations own many sites well-positioned to help – faith groups, colleges, and healthcare facilities collectively hold around 986 parcels in Nashville. These sites could support about 6,000 homes under existing zoning; faith-owned properties are found near transit that are ideal. The report suggests faith entities leverage underused land by partnering with experienced developers for housing. This allows institutions to address housing needs faced by many congregants and neighbors without acting alone on building and financing. Incentives and rezoning of some faith properties could maximize new affordable units.
This research is on the heels of SB 4, the “Affordable Housing on Faith Lands Act” in California, and the similar soon-to-be-proposed legislation in New York State “Faith Based Affordable Housing Act.”
Houses of Faith and Mental Health
A new national movement has taken on the taboo in many Black churches against talking about suicide. Churches, black churches in particular, are deeply embedded in community fabric, and serve as hubs of social support and spiritual guidance, making them crucial players in tackling mental health issues. By fostering open dialogue, providing support services, and collaborating with mental health professionals, Black churches can play a pivotal role in addressing the mental health crisis within the Black community.
Faith Dialogues
Orthodox scholars and clergy convened a symposium near Boston to discuss reviving the role of women deacons in the church. The St. Phoebe Center organized the gathering to establish concrete guidelines for reinstating women deacons in which a proposed pilot program would see bishops evaluate candidates for ordination over three years. Proponents argue women could fill spiritual care gaps, noting many female-specific hardships lack dedicated pastoral support.
First Lady Jill Biden welcomed a group of women faith leaders and advocates to the White House for an afternoon tea on Monday, November 13th. The gathering allowed open discussion on how faith can strengthen even the most challenging seasons and allowed participants to share their perspectives. Among the guests was Robin Jackson, wife of Pastor Charles Jackson from South Carolina. Mrs. Biden credited Robin with helping restore her faith during a difficult time, saying their faith together "carried us forward" as a reminder that community and compassion can uplift us in darkness.
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