The experience also prompted partnership ideas between churches.
John Lovelace, a member of Oak Lawn UMC, who participated in the training, remarked on the wonderful diversity and opportunity presented by the proximity of Oak Lawn and Saint Paul. Commenting on Saint Paul's strategic location, he said, "I am fascinated by the wonderful potential of Saint Paul. We were here first, and all of these multi-million dollar buildings, including the new 7-11 headquarters, are now at our doorstep."
Citing numerous examples of successful partnership and fund-raising efforts in cities throughout the U.S., Peveler emphasized that collaboration is not easy. "It is hard, hard work, and it involves change," she emphasized.
She also noted that it is critical that churches seeking partnerships know their assets and come at their efforts from an attitude of abundance rather than an, "Oh, poor me, attitude."
As the group celebrated completion of the 2007-2008 training, Peveler suggested reconvening in the fall to evaluate progress and offer new tools, resources, and a framework to determine the next steps on the journey to preserving the sacred places of our NTC heritage. Sacred Places will also launch an ecumenical training for churches whose buildings are registered as architectural landmarks with the Texas Historic Commission.
For more information, please call the Texas Office at 817-965-5072 or visit the Website: www.sacredplaces.org
From left, Elmwood UMC representatives David and Linda Pauze, Pat Moyer and Rev. Earnest Walt, discuss ways to cultivate new dollars and new partners using practices learned from the Partners for Sacred Places program. Rev. Sandra Cabrera, pastor of El Buen Samaritano UMC, the Rio Grande Conference church in a cooperative parish relationship with Elmwood, also serves as a member of the team.
Oak Lawn UMC representatives receiving the church’s Sacred Places certificate of completion from senior trainer Sarah Peveler and Dallas Denton District Superintendent Rev. Larry George, right, are from left, John A. Lovelace, Trustee; A. Lawson Metz, Trustee chairperson, and Connie Ritchey, business manager.
