Please scroll through the slide show ABOVE to view the THREE PHASES of the current process for finding our new home.
NOTE
by Sandy Allen, HAB Co-Chair
When as a parish we voted to shift from a leasing model of a church to an ownership model, under the leadership of our Administrative Staff, we began organizing to prepare for our next home.
These efforts are being overseen by THE HOMECOMING ADVISORY BOARD. The Advisory Board consists of the chairs of five teams formed to do the work associated with this endeavor. They are: Future Facilities, Budget, Finance, Renovations, and Holy Helpers (see below for an explanation of each committee). Collectively and with the leadership of our staff, this structure is intended to direct our efforts and organize our activities as we look for potential properties. Everyone in the parish has been invited to participate and it is not too late. This dedicated section of the Spiritus website, called A Place to Call Home, is where you can read more about the work each team is doing, and sign-up to participate on a team/committee. The Holy Helpers team, to start with, has a volunteer sign-up form (see below) to assist with projects based on your skill set, interests, time and availability.
As our property search gets underway, I’d like to share an overview of the current process. I use the word “current” because as we progress, we learn, grow, sometimes find we must adapt. What’s very important is that this is a collaborative and transparent process and with faith and prayer we know that we will find our new home.
The First Phase of our Property Search Process kicks-off when the Futures Facility Team is notified that a property is available, and our realtor secures a date for FFT and our Staff to tour the property/building. Within two days of the tour the FFT shares their feedback making a recommendation to the Homecoming Advisory Board to proceed or not. Remember that whatever team you may be on, your team chairperson sits on the HAB so they will keep you informed.
The Second Phase of our Property Search Process happens when the Staff decides to submit a Letter of Intent. This begins a 45-day due diligence period. During the DDP we will work with contractors to assess the property and the congregation will have an opportunity to tour the property to begin to draw your own conclusions.
The Last Phase of our Property Search Process involves our Stewardship Committee interacting with the Budget Team, considering repairs, renovations and priorities. Additional information will be provided during a Parish Community Forum ultimately being taken to the full parish for a PCF Vote after the 9:30 Service, like was done when we looked at the Child Street property. A 67% yes vote must be met to proceed.
We are certainly learning and growing as we move through this exciting experience. I know that I must continually remind myself to Let Go & Let God during this process. I’m confident that wonderful things will be happening for Spiritus and our future enabling us to continue our important work. Stay tuned for updates during Services from our Parish Communications Chair Bridget Casselman, your HAB Co-Chairs, Michael Theisen and myself (Sandy Allen), or any of the team chairs with questions or ideas.
Thank you.
Committees
- Homecoming Board: oversees and leads working subgroups
- Future Facility Team: works with staff to identify needs for prospective sites
- Budget Team: works closely with our Stewardship Committee in determining phases for renovation work needed
- Finance Team: works on presenting fundraising opportunities
- Holy Helpers Team: helps with renovations, decorations, and updates
- Renovations Team: a group of NYS licensed professionals that will work with contractors and the Holy Helpers to oversee renovations needed
