Paul D. Numrich is Professor in the Snowden Chair for the Study of Religion and Interreligious Relations at Methodist Theological School in Ohio and Professor at Trinity Lutheran Seminary at Capital University.

When Congregations Share Their Properties:
5 Principles for Good Decisions

Buildings & Spaces, Networks & Relationships, Process Frame, Resources Frame, United States & Canada

My recent studies of congregations have shown me that a shared parking lot often isn’t just about parking. More than that, any kind of property-sharing arrangement, whether with outside groups or diverse internal groups, requires careful assessment of why and how, as well as careful tending of the relationship. Guiding these decisions are principles that…

Muslim women perform Ramadan prayers at Heartsong Church, suburban Memphis.

When Congregations Share Their Properties:
5 Principles for Good Decisions

Buildings & Spaces, Interviews, Money & Resources, Networks & Relationships, Process Frame, Resources Frame, Resources-Feature, Social Service & Activism, Theology Frame, Urban Congregations

My recent studies of congregations have shown me that a shared parking lot often isn’t just about parking. More than that, any kind of property-sharing arrangement, whether with outside groups or diverse internal groups, requires careful assessment of why and how, as well as careful tending of the relationship. Guiding these decisions are principles that…

When a Shared Parking Lot Isn’t Just About Parking

Buildings & Spaces, Interviews, Networks & Relationships, Process Frame, Resources Frame, Urban Congregations

|| Written by Paul D. Numrich, Methodist Theological School in Ohio and Trinity Lutheran Seminary || What happens when a Catholic church provides overflow parking to a Hindu temple? Is it primarily an exchange of resources? Or is something more going on? In our book on immigrant congregations, Sacred Assemblies and Civic Engagement, Fred Kniss and I…