Can buildings speak? Only in a cartoon, you might say. Church buildings are always there, even when we are not using them for worship, a Foodbank, toddler group or a café. What do our church buildings say about us and about God?
Our forebears built our churches in prominent locations and in long-lasting materials – stone rather than wattle-and-daub or wood – so that the church building would speak to everyone about God’s constant and enduring love for his people. They installed bells to call people to worship and spires to direct people’s thoughts to heaven.
What do our church buildings say now about us as worshipping communities, seeking to respond to God’s constant love for everyone? As well as asking new parishioners or visitors, why not visit your church building as if you were approaching it for the first time?
- Does the church look cared for and used? It may have significant repair needs, but we can still keep notices about services and special events up-to-date and put a welcome board in the porch.
- Is the church open for people to come in? Many churches can be kept open unattended during daylight hours, provided sensible steps are followed.
- Can you easily find the door and get inside? Signs can help. We may worry about steps and heavy doors. It may be possible to make adaptations to assist people. Even if it’s not, do put information about access provision on your website or another local website.
- What do you say to visitors when you’re not there? You could provide people with prayer resources, a children’s area, information about church services and support, access to a toilet and tea-making facilities if you have them, quiet reflective music, pictures of church activities and people or even a prayer request box/board or tree.
The DAC’s role in the faculty process is to support parishes in developing well thought-through and appropriate proposals for changes to make our church buildings more welcoming, accessible, energy-efficient and fit to meet the current needs for worship, hospitality and outreach in each local community.
Do get in touch and let’s see how your church building can speak.
What is the DAC?
The Diocesan Advisory Committee. This committee provides advice to Archdeacons and parishes regarding proposals for works to church buildings, churchyards, and church furnishings. The DAC also offers general guidance on the care and development of churches within the Diocese.
