Across the country, many congregations are asking a similar question: what does faithful stewardship look like for buildings that are no longer used the way they once were?

A new initiative is helping churches explore that question with creativity, clarity, and community. Building for Hope is now preparing to launch its third cohort in fall 2026. Churches interested in learning more are invited to attend an upcoming online information session on Wednesday, April 22, at 1:00pm EST, where leaders can explore the program and next steps for applying.

Building for Hope, a program launched by Old Town Community Church (OTCC) in Alexandria, is designed to guide congregations through the process of repurposing underutilized facilities to better serve their mission and their neighbors. Funded by a $1.24 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. through its Thriving Congregations Initiative, the program equips churches to see their physical spaces not as burdens, but as opportunities for ministry and community impact.

The two-year program offers participating congregations a structured journey that includes training, coaching, and collaboration with other churches navigating similar challenges. Each church participates as a team—typically a pastor and lay leaders—engaging in in-person gatherings, ongoing consultation, and implementation support.

At its core, Building for Hope addresses what many leaders recognize as a growing reality: aging or underused church buildings can strain resources, but they can also become catalysts for renewed mission.

Participants consistently point to the value of learning alongside others. “It is so helpful to come together with other churches that are experiencing the same challenges and have the same desire to do better… just to know you are not alone,” said Tracy Hartman of Suffolk Christian Church in Suffolk, Virginia.

Others highlight both the practical and spiritual impact of the process. “Building for Hope helped our congregation give ourselves and ‘our’ building to God and to our neighbors for its highest and best use,” said Jenny Hulen of St. Simon’s Episcopal Church in Arlington Heights, Illinois. “B4H gave us inspiring, grounding, and practical resources to take those faithful steps.”

The program combines theological reflection with practical tools, helping congregations discern how their buildings might serve as hubs for ministry, community partnerships, or new forms of outreach. Its vision is to foster “community good” through renewed congregations and repurposed facilities. “Building for Hope is a great resource for helping churches mobilize not only their congregations but their bricks and mortar for mission,” commented Dr. Phillip Faig, program director and senior pastor of OTCC.

Visit buildingforhope.org to learn more and to register for the April 22 information session.

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