response to NYC – change in church venues

With RSS feeds and the myriad of cross-connections, I’m brought into conversations that I wouldn’t otherwise seek out. There’s been some buzz about a new regulation in NYC that is prohibiting churches from meeting in schools. For small churches without their own buildings, schools can be a convenient and functional rental venue. Here’s a recent article, and my response based on many recent conversations with clients and associates:

Even without the regulation that is changing venues in NYC, we’re seeing churches in Raleigh that are considering alternate facility types – these are often church plants and new congregations. I regularly have the conversation with [potential] church clients who are considering their options. Many are drawn to industrial buildings because of the volume and a sense of urban redemption. However, the best transitional value is often found in buildings that already include assembly spaces for rent: hotels, event halls, theaters.

The regulation against churches in schools is a surprise only because it’s re-opening a conversation that’s been on hold for a few political terms. However, the regulation is likely an action that will direct churches further into the active heart of the city.