Sacred Sites Grants
The New York Landmarks Conservancy has awarded $228,800 across 14 grants to landmarked religious properties throughout New York State. Half of the grants were in New York City, and almost a third of the grants were to historic synagogues. This includes grants to three historic synagogues: Kehila Kedosha Janina in Manhattan, Congregation Kol Israel in Brooklyn, and Young Israel Beth El in Borough Park. These grants support exterior restoration projects such as roof replacements and masonry repairs, ensuring these historic buildings continue to serve their communities with various social and cultural programs.
New Development Projects
MDG Design + Construction has completed Hanson Place Community Plaza, a 104-unit partially affordable housing complex in Brooklyn, with 87 units designated for low- to moderate-income households. The $65.7 million project, financed through multiple sources including the New York City Housing Development Corp. and Hanson Place Church Support Corp., features a 13-story building with 22,000 square feet of community space, an 8,000-square-foot medical center, and various community programs aimed at enriching local residents' lives.
First McKinney Baptist Church in McKinney, TX is developing a building for sixth to 12th-grade students, featuring a multipurpose area, gathering room, hang-out areas, offices, and classrooms. The church’s lobby is also expanding to connect the student building, kids building, and main building.
The Faith Community and Climate Change
Faith institutions worldwide are increasingly engaging in climate action, blending faith and science to address the climate crisis.
Dr. Cybelle Shattuck, an expert on the intersection of religion and sustainability, highlights three key ways faith institutions contribute to environmental efforts:
Pastor André Greene of Varick Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church emphasizes the Christian duty to care for the earth, citing biblical teachings. Greene's congregation has long fought for environmental justice, including efforts to shut down a polluting Pepco plant and push for electrification to reduce pollution in low-income homes. Nationwide, organizations like Green the Church and Interfaith Power and Light DMV are promoting sustainable practices among congregations.
If you enjoy these weekly updates, please consider becoming a Bricks and Mortals member or making a contribution so we can continue to provide this and resources like it.
Sign up to join our mailing list and get these every week!
