Churches, synagogues receive $4 million in grants to support preservation projects

The National Fund for Sacred Spaces and the National Trust for Historic Preservation have awarded $4 million in grants to support critical preservation projects that will help maintain and extend the life of two synagogues and a diverse array of Christian churches across the nation, including a historic Catholic sanctuary in Puerto Rico.

“Sacred places hold power to inspire awe, joy and a sense of connection, belonging and purpose,” said Carol Quillen, president and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, reported by Religion News Service. “The grants and technical support provided by the national fund will ensure that these spaces serve as meaningful centers within their communities for generations.”

Since 2016, the National Fund for Sacred Places, a program of Partners for Sacred Places, has awarded more than $26 million to 138 congregations across 42 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. In addition to capital grants of up to $500,000, Partners for Sacred Spaces offers a range of technical support and consulting for grantees, including for fundraising and stewardship campaigns, as well as ideas for community engagement and space sharing.

“We are proud to welcome 24 faith communities into the national fund this year, representing diverse regions, traditions and heritages,” said Bob Jaeger, president of Partners for Sacred Places. “Their buildings will continue to serve as community centers, art spaces and safe havens. We’re honored to help them continue this critical work.”

Steven Jacober, director of Congregation Mishkan Israel, shared his community’s plan for the grant: “The grant will be used to replace our roof, which has been in need of attention for many years. A piecemeal approach to repairs has only exacerbated the deteriorating condition of the roof.”

Rachel Hildebrandt, director of the National Fund for Sacred Places, reflected on the need for funds in historic preservation.

“This year, we received nearly 500 applications, up 31 percent from last year,” she said. “The growth we’re seeing mostly is the result of word of mouth and underscores the reality that historic sacred places need external support to balance caring for their buildings and serving their communities.”

The recipients were chosen because of their historical significance and community engagement. With additional funding from the Lilly Endowment, the National Fund for Sacred Places was able to more than double its funding to the congregations, Hildebrandt said.

–Alan Goforth | Metro Voice