Contents Why have this Summit? Why have this Summit? Goals Goals Agenda Agenda Issues Faced by Urban Parishes Issues Faced by Urban Parishes Key Challenges

ContentsContents Why have this Summit?Why have this Summit? GoalsGoals AgendaAgenda Issues Faced by Urban ParishesIssues Faced by Urban Parishes Key Challenges –as reported at SummitKey Challenges –as reported at Summit What is workingWhat is working Current ministries by attendeesCurrent ministries by attendees What I learned (day one)What I learned (day one) Workshop Notes – Fix This Urban parishWorkshop Notes – Fix This Urban parish Healtht vs Unhealthy Urban parish attributesHealtht vs Unhealthy Urban parish attributes What is needed from Diocese /OCAWhat is needed from Diocese /OCA Attendee feedback survey summaryAttendee feedback survey summary

Diocese of the Midwest - Orthodox Church in AmericaDiocese of the Midwest - Orthodox Church in America 22

WhyWhy Approximately 35% of Diocesan parishes are located in major Approximately 35% of Diocesan parishes are located in major

urban areas as opposed to the suburbs or rural locations. urban areas as opposed to the suburbs or rural locations. The profile of the urban parish has dramatically shifted over The profile of the urban parish has dramatically shifted over

past 100 years. past 100 years. Orthodox immigrants no longer live adjacent to their urban parish. Orthodox immigrants no longer live adjacent to their urban parish. Majority of parishioners have embraced a suburban lifestyle, -- long Majority of parishioners have embraced a suburban lifestyle, -- long

commutes to church. Or transfer to suburban parishes with lush lawns and commutes to church. Or transfer to suburban parishes with lush lawns and newer facilities.newer facilities.

Many parish neighborhoods are in decline -- challenged by poverty and Many parish neighborhoods are in decline -- challenged by poverty and crime. crime.

Backward not forward lookingBackward not forward looking In towns strapped by economic changes, some parishes consist of senior In towns strapped by economic changes, some parishes consist of senior

citizens who do not have the capabilities and perhaps the motivation to citizens who do not have the capabilities and perhaps the motivation to carry out ministries, or maintain a vibrant, healthy parish. carry out ministries, or maintain a vibrant, healthy parish.

Large and aging parish buildings are costly to maintain, and drain the Large and aging parish buildings are costly to maintain, and drain the parish of resources that could be used for parish life and ministries.parish of resources that could be used for parish life and ministries.

Some neighborhoods however are enjoying rebirth. Some neighborhoods however are enjoying rebirth. Bringing Orthodox Urban parishes together to share, connect Bringing Orthodox Urban parishes together to share, connect

and define approaches to common problems is a critical step and define approaches to common problems is a critical step in growing Orthodoxy in America. in growing Orthodoxy in America.


Goals – Urban Parish Goals – Urban Parish SummitSummit

1.1. Explore the opportunities that uniquely exist in urban Explore the opportunities that uniquely exist in urban settings for proclaiming Christ.settings for proclaiming Christ.

2.2. Identify and agree upon the top challenges facing Identify and agree upon the top challenges facing Orthodox Urban parishes.Orthodox Urban parishes.

3.3. Inventory what we’re doing today in our Urban parishes. Inventory what we’re doing today in our Urban parishes. 4.4. Understand what is working and not working in Orthodox Understand what is working and not working in Orthodox

urban parishes -- and define a clear set of good practices urban parishes -- and define a clear set of good practices as a result. as a result.

5.5. Select a few key issues to develop potential approaches Select a few key issues to develop potential approaches and solutions that can be used to tackle these and solutions that can be used to tackle these challenges.challenges.

6.6. Identify key priorities for the Diocese of the Midwest for Identify key priorities for the Diocese of the Midwest for assisting urban parishes to live out their vocation.assisting urban parishes to live out their vocation.

7.7. Commit to one actionCommit to one action Each parish in attendance departs with at least one Each parish in attendance departs with at least one

important believable action that they commit to taking in important believable action that they commit to taking in the next year. the next year.


AgendaAgendaDAY ONE: Exploring the Role of the DAY ONE: Exploring the Role of the

Urban Parish Urban Parish INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION Check in ExerciseCheck in Exercise What is Working and What is Working and

NotNot FOCUS ON URBAN PARISH FOCUS ON URBAN PARISH

MINISTRIES: REACHING "THE LEAST MINISTRIES: REACHING "THE LEAST OF THESE." OF THESE." Fr. Justin MathewsFr. Justin Mathews,,

LUNCH; GROUP PHOTOLUNCH; GROUP PHOTO REACHING OUT TO NEW URBAN REACHING OUT TO NEW URBAN

PROFESSIONALS PROFESSIONALS Sister Rita Mary Sister Rita Mary Harwood,Harwood, Cleveland Catholic Diocese Cleveland Catholic Diocese

DEBUNKING MYTHS OF THE NEEDY DEBUNKING MYTHS OF THE NEEDY FRFR. Deacon Ed Brisbine. Deacon Ed Brisbine, St. Nicholas , St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, Warren, Ohio, Orthodox Church, Warren, Ohio,

LOVING THY NEIGHBOR IN THE LOVING THY NEIGHBOR IN THE URBAN PARISH: PARTNERSHIP WITH URBAN PARISH: PARTNERSHIP WITH THE NEIGHBORHOOD THE NEIGHBORHOOD Charles Charles Robbins, Robbins, St Gregory of Nyssa Columbus St Gregory of Nyssa Columbus OH OH

DAY ONE CLOSING WORKSHOPDAY ONE CLOSING WORKSHOP Application to Your Urban Parish:Application to Your Urban Parish: INTRO DAY TWO WORKSHOPINTRO DAY TWO WORKSHOP 6:15 PM FELLOWSHIP 6:15 PM FELLOWSHIP Social Hour; Social Hour;

Dinner Dinner

Day Two Building Good Practices for Day Two Building Good Practices for Urban ParishesUrban Parishes

REVIEW DAY ONE; REVIEW DAY ONE; Key Highlights Key Highlights SummarySummary

8:45 AM FOSTERING CHANGE AND 8:45 AM FOSTERING CHANGE AND GROWTH IN THE ESTABLISHED GROWTH IN THE ESTABLISHED PARISHPARISH

Fr. Gregory JensenFr. Gregory Jensen, , Priest in charge, Priest in charge, Holy Assumption Orthodox Church, Holy Assumption Orthodox Church, Canton OHCanton OH

GOOD PRACTICES WORKSHOP – GOOD PRACTICES WORKSHOP – FIX THIS URBAN PARISH FIX THIS URBAN PARISH

LUNCH LUNCH 1:15 PM WORKSHOP BUILDING A 1:15 PM WORKSHOP BUILDING A

MATURITY MODEL FOR URBAN MATURITY MODEL FOR URBAN PARISHESPARISHES

2:15 PM WHAT URBAN PARISHES 2:15 PM WHAT URBAN PARISHES NEED FROM OUR DIOCESE AND NEED FROM OUR DIOCESE AND THE OCA – THE OCA – WORKSHOPWORKSHOP

SUMMATION SUMMATION What have we What have we accomplished? What next?accomplished? What next?

55

Some Issues Faced by Some Issues Faced by Urban ParishesUrban Parishes

Should we stay or go?Should we stay or go? How to build a willingness to undertake ministry to How to build a willingness to undertake ministry to

others?others? What new urban ministries should we be doing and how What new urban ministries should we be doing and how

can we do them better?can we do them better? What do we need to know about ministry xyz in order to What do we need to know about ministry xyz in order to

do it better.do it better. How to build hope in our future? We’ve been declining How to build hope in our future? We’ve been declining

for so long that our mentality is survival. How to feel for so long that our mentality is survival. How to feel good about our potential.good about our potential.

How to get out of ruts. Waking up a sleeping parish. How to get out of ruts. Waking up a sleeping parish. Learning to change and adaptLearning to change and adapt

66

How to build an identity and a new spirit in our parish How to build a vibrant parish life that offers something unique How to offer something more than Sunday AM -- when we don’t have enough children, our

people live too far away, many are elderly etc. How to attract new members to a church that is half full and those that are there are over

70 – and has long appeared to insular and isolated. How do we attract people from the suburbs? Should we attract people from the burbs –or

should we focus locally? “Target population for evangelization” We don’t have enough money to take care of our aging expensive building – much less

start new ministries. How can we get more from our lay persons in this parish? Leadership? Effort? Energy?

Which Issues are Important to Which Issues are Important to Your Parish? Your Parish?

From Preconference SurveyFrom Preconference Survey


Session 1 Session 1 Key Challenges/We Need Help Key Challenges/We Need Help

With…With… Finances/stewardshipFinances/stewardship Majority do not support the parish with Majority do not support the parish with

first fruits, but rather with token givingfirst fruits, but rather with token giving Prioritizing how much $ to put where.Prioritizing how much $ to put where. In our desperate economy in Detroit, In our desperate economy in Detroit,

how do we raise the needed money that how do we raise the needed money that we need to initially offset our costs, and we need to initially offset our costs, and to plan our future?to plan our future?

Overcoming the fear of spending our Overcoming the fear of spending our parishes savings – hoardingparishes savings – hoarding

Need a priest (parish w/o assigned Need a priest (parish w/o assigned priest)priest)

Help with incorporation/ guidelines? Help with incorporation/ guidelines? Strategies for/ experiences of others Strategies for/ experiences of others

dealing with universitydealing with university ParkingParking Aging Facility ; maintaining older Aging Facility ; maintaining older

propertyproperty Our facility –adequate accessOur facility –adequate access Aging Congregation Aging Congregation

Lacking Full Multi-Generational Lacking Full Multi-Generational RepresentationRepresentation

Establishing a Mercy Group to more actively Establishing a Mercy Group to more actively engage lay people in the ministry to the engage lay people in the ministry to the sick, shut-ins, and others in need of sick, shut-ins, and others in need of fellowship, contact, etc. fellowship, contact, etc.

Making sure that existing programs get the Making sure that existing programs get the attention they need.attention they need.

Setting parameters for ourselves so that Setting parameters for ourselves so that too few get too overextendedtoo few get too overextended

Attracting people from the neighborhoodAttracting people from the neighborhood Trend of new members to live farther away Trend of new members to live farther away

from the parish's location. from the parish's location. With so many families moving farther away With so many families moving farther away

from the city, how do we bring them all the from the city, how do we bring them all the way back home to us?way back home to us?

Location, many people have moved out of Location, many people have moved out of the area the area

Fear of attending evening services. Fear of attending evening services. Changed ethnic neighborhood – Changed ethnic neighborhood –

parishioners have moved away from the parishioners have moved away from the citycity

Reaching out to new residents of the areaReaching out to new residents of the area 88

Session 1 Session 1 Key Challenges/We Need Help With…

"Membership"-Transient parishioners due to "Membership"-Transient parishioners due to the increasingly high cost of living in the increasingly high cost of living in Chicago. Chicago.

Our location in a depressed neighborhoodOur location in a depressed neighborhood How to let people in the neighborhood know How to let people in the neighborhood know

we are herewe are here Breaking down barriersBreaking down barriers Assimilating the communityAssimilating the community Changing to a ministry stewardship based Changing to a ministry stewardship based

approachapproach With the community changing (ethnicity) With the community changing (ethnicity)

how do we acclimate our lives and Faith how do we acclimate our lives and Faith with theirs? with theirs?

How to engage people who live in a culture How to engage people who live in a culture of poverty about Orthodoxy from of poverty about Orthodoxy from fundamentalist backgrounds.fundamentalist backgrounds.

Engaging a mentality of poverty from a Engaging a mentality of poverty from a middle class perspectivemiddle class perspective

How to engage "the poor" as persons and How to engage "the poor" as persons and not as "the needy" or projects. not as "the needy" or projects.

Ministries outside of our own people (we do Ministries outside of our own people (we do only safe ministries)only safe ministries)

Shifting out of low gear in our work with the Shifting out of low gear in our work with the community community

What have people learned about dealing What have people learned about dealing with the "professional beggar": what process with the "professional beggar": what process of discernment do we use to tell who really of discernment do we use to tell who really should be helped?should be helped?

Classes/catechetical approach for Classes/catechetical approach for neighborhood people who are functionally neighborhood people who are functionally illiterate.illiterate.

Orthodox Lifestyle is a "hard sell", even Orthodox Lifestyle is a "hard sell", even among baptized Orthodox Christians within among baptized Orthodox Christians within an increasingly liberal society that embraces an increasingly liberal society that embraces relativism and political correctness. relativism and political correctness.

Overall sense of "distraction" from "churchly Overall sense of "distraction" from "churchly things" caused by society's "busyness." things" caused by society's "busyness." Need to find strategies to counteract the Need to find strategies to counteract the loss of young adults after high school loss of young adults after high school graduation.graduation.

Getting the people to come to Church Getting the people to come to Church Sunday AM only participationSunday AM only participation Breaking out of rutsBreaking out of ruts Being one of 30+ Orthodox parishes (6 OCA) Being one of 30+ Orthodox parishes (6 OCA)

in our cityin our city

99

Session 1Session 1What is Working For UsWhat is Working For Us

Outreach to (typical Orthodox) immigrants Outreach to (typical Orthodox) immigrants Speakers from outside Orthodox resourcesSpeakers from outside Orthodox resources Outreach to collegeOutreach to college Invite neighbors to church with flyersInvite neighbors to church with flyers Diversity is acceptedDiversity is accepted Working with schools and food bankWorking with schools and food bank Vesperal liturgiesVesperal liturgies Spiritual life center –used on a daily basis; Spiritual life center –used on a daily basis;

attracts neighborsattracts neighbors Referral serviceReferral service Outreach to shelters, campus neighborsOutreach to shelters, campus neighbors Block partyBlock party Show we care about neighborhoodShow we care about neighborhood Teach about Tradition in homiliesTeach about Tradition in homilies Reaching out to university and medical Reaching out to university and medical

centercenter Focus on resources for people in needFocus on resources for people in need Ministry based parish councilMinistry based parish council Desire to have all parishioners in a ministryDesire to have all parishioners in a ministry Cambridge professor provides bible studyCambridge professor provides bible study

Dinners and events for socializingDinners and events for socializing Festival to engage neighborhoodFestival to engage neighborhood Frequently updated websites and newslettersFrequently updated websites and newsletters Neighborhood building are historicalNeighborhood building are historical Decision to stay (in neighborhood) and Decision to stay (in neighborhood) and

renovate means conscious commitmentrenovate means conscious commitment Ministries outside of parishMinistries outside of parish Engage neighbors; outreach to neighborhoodEngage neighbors; outreach to neighborhood Parishioners are not concerned with parking Parishioners are not concerned with parking

or declining neighborhoodor declining neighborhood Feeding 90-100 persons by collecting food Feeding 90-100 persons by collecting food

from local storesfrom local stores Bookstore and coffee house are open to Bookstore and coffee house are open to

publicpublic Willingness to catechize neighborhood people Willingness to catechize neighborhood people

who are illiteratewho are illiterate Stewardship; Admin; youthStewardship; Admin; youth Reaching out to younger Orthodox people Reaching out to younger Orthodox people

working in the areaworking in the area People deciding to attend here even though People deciding to attend here even though

farther awayfarther away Student prayer books for campusStudent prayer books for campus

1010

Session 1Session 1What is Working For UsWhat is Working For Us

Finances/stewardship Finances/stewardship Greater & greater youth participation Greater & greater youth participation Wider participation in outreach programs Wider participation in outreach programs more inflow of new more inflow of new

people/conversions/baptismspeople/conversions/baptisms Formation of Parish Life Committee has Formation of Parish Life Committee has

helped develop new parish activities. helped develop new parish activities. Constant addition of new converts, although Constant addition of new converts, although

small in number annually.small in number annually. Parish Council has become more diversified, Parish Council has become more diversified,

with excellent collegial attitude.with excellent collegial attitude. We had to "re-identify" ourselves to us, our We had to "re-identify" ourselves to us, our

Lost Sheep, & our neighbors/community. Lost Sheep, & our neighbors/community. Realizing & keeping GOD first, we began a Realizing & keeping GOD first, we began a

series of events/activities to promote our series of events/activities to promote our Faith & to develop social relationships that Faith & to develop social relationships that would help get us noticed and to keep folks would help get us noticed and to keep folks interested. interested.

We also stressed our own fellowship & We also stressed our own fellowship & Christian Education for adults and kids.Christian Education for adults and kids.

Collaborating with neighborhood Collaborating with neighborhood organizations who may have access to organizations who may have access to greater resourcesgreater resources..

Teaching series aimed at "catechism for the Teaching series aimed at "catechism for the catecized."catecized."

Religious Education has taken an even more Religious Education has taken an even more professional stature. New teachers, new professional stature. New teachers, new programs help build interest and support. programs help build interest and support.

Our Outreach program. Under fine Our Outreach program. Under fine leadership service projects involve our leadership service projects involve our neighbors in increasingly useful ways.neighbors in increasingly useful ways.

Congregational response has become more Congregational response has become more spirited. Visitors take note and are favorably spirited. Visitors take note and are favorably impressed.impressed.

All the parishioners are involved in All the parishioners are involved in welcoming guest and bring friend to the welcoming guest and bring friend to the services. services. I tell my parishioners in the sermons that I tell my parishioners in the sermons that this Church will only grow if we all bring this Church will only grow if we all bring people. It's a call which we must all answer. people. It's a call which we must all answer.

Team work.Team work. Ministries, service and fellowship Ministries, service and fellowship

opportunities opportunities Parish Administration Parish Administration Liturgical life, preaching and teaching are Liturgical life, preaching and teaching are

said to be more vibrantsaid to be more vibrant More Frequent (5-6 per week)/Vibrant More Frequent (5-6 per week)/Vibrant

Worship Worship Effective Collaborative Leadership Effective Collaborative Leadership The Ministry of the Spiritual Life CenterThe Ministry of the Spiritual Life Center


Listing of Current Urban Ministries by Listing of Current Urban Ministries by Attending ParishesAttending Parishes

Compiled from preconference surveyCompiled from preconference survey After School Arts Program (arts in schools suffering cuts or elimination) After School Arts Program (arts in schools suffering cuts or elimination) Annual free Block PartyAnnual free Block Party Involvement with neighborhood issues & upkeep Involvement with neighborhood issues & upkeep Small public playground provided in parish property Small public playground provided in parish property participation in city-wide interfaith organization addressing urban participation in city-wide interfaith organization addressing urban

social/economic issues - impacts neighborhoodsocial/economic issues - impacts neighborhood Deborah's Place- Serving meals to at a homeless women's shelter Deborah's Place- Serving meals to at a homeless women's shelter Pacific Garden Mission- Clothing drive for the homelessPacific Garden Mission- Clothing drive for the homeless Contributions to local food bank located at nearby church. Contributions to local food bank located at nearby church. Invitations extended to attend parish's annual food festival as free guests.Invitations extended to attend parish's annual food festival as free guests. Open-house held on a Saturday recently Open-house held on a Saturday recently Opened church as refuge when nearby housing unit caught on fire. Opened church as refuge when nearby housing unit caught on fire. Assist food needs to legitimate people with restaurant certificatesAssist food needs to legitimate people with restaurant certificates Feeding off a successful campaign to feed the poor at holidays, we have Feeding off a successful campaign to feed the poor at holidays, we have

continued collecting & distributing food/items to the poor. continued collecting & distributing food/items to the poor. We have created events that fill needs of the area (including: Santa Claus We have created events that fill needs of the area (including: Santa Claus

photos and cookies, designing Easter Eggs, Internet cafe in our hall, after school photos and cookies, designing Easter Eggs, Internet cafe in our hall, after school programs to tutor, talking to the neighbors, etc)programs to tutor, talking to the neighbors, etc)

Participating in neighborhood events and organizations Participating in neighborhood events and organizations


Listing of Current Urban Ministries by Listing of Current Urban Ministries by Attending ParishesAttending Parishes

Compiled from preconference surveyCompiled from preconference survey Governor's Advisory Board for Faith-based and Community based Initiatives.Governor's Advisory Board for Faith-based and Community based Initiatives. Habitat for Humanity Habitat for Humanity Food Voucher program Food Voucher program Nursing home visits Nursing home visits Blood drive Blood drive trash day trash day Partnering with food pantry Partnering with food pantry helping with meals for school age children helping with meals for school age children partnering with "Life Centers“partnering with "Life Centers“ Saturday Lunch Program Saturday Lunch Program Outdoor beautification projects, including making graffiti disappear. Outdoor beautification projects, including making graffiti disappear. Growing involvement with the local commissionsGrowing involvement with the local commissions food bank.food bank. Informal networkingInformal networking Art-A-WhirlArt-A-Whirl Neighborhood Nite Out Neighborhood Nite Out Parishioner Helping Parishioners Program Parishioner Helping Parishioners Program Ecuadorean Volley-Ball group Ecuadorean Volley-Ball group Church School and Youth Group service projectsChurch School and Youth Group service projects Food card distribution to area hungry Food card distribution to area hungry Enabling gardens with fresh produce for local shelter. Enabling gardens with fresh produce for local shelter. Occasional emergency referral drop-ins at the Spiritual Life Center.Occasional emergency referral drop-ins at the Spiritual Life Center.


What I LearnedAbout two thirds of the way through day one we About two thirds of the way through day one we

asked we asked people to contribute a few asked we asked people to contribute a few post it notes about what they’d learned or post it notes about what they’d learned or what seemed important to them so far… what seemed important to them so far… here are few contributions: (some are here are few contributions: (some are admittedly unclear due to limited space or admittedly unclear due to limited space or unclear context)unclear context)

I learned about Focus North America – a I learned about Focus North America – a means and a model for us all to serve.means and a model for us all to serve.

Finally we have a group within the church Finally we have a group within the church that can coordinate services for the people in that can coordinate services for the people in needneed

It is great to see Orthodoxy stepping up to It is great to see Orthodoxy stepping up to the plate in an organized fashion putting into the plate in an organized fashion putting into action that which is in all of our hearts.action that which is in all of our hearts.

Hope inspiration to network with other Hope inspiration to network with other Orthodox to set up service work/agencyOrthodox to set up service work/agency

Inspired to be more prophetic/courageousInspired to be more prophetic/courageous I’m not the only one who has noticed that I’m not the only one who has noticed that

there is a current of racism that undermines there is a current of racism that undermines the work of our churchthe work of our church

I’m encouraged to hear that so many people I’m encouraged to hear that so many people are doing so much good mission workare doing so much good mission work

Parish hall used for service level ministriesParish hall used for service level ministries

Start small; be consistentStart small; be consistent Ministries “for the poor” or “with the Ministries “for the poor” or “with the

poor” or “Are we the poor?” or “Am I poor” or “Are we the poor?” or “Am I the poor?”the poor?”

I learned that an essential element to I learned that an essential element to service of the poor is a personal service of the poor is a personal presence in their presence in their communitycommunity and a and a knowledge of their personal life knowledge of their personal life strugglesstruggles

Existing with the poor not for the poorExisting with the poor not for the poor To give and not to judgeTo give and not to judge Instead of handing out money give Instead of handing out money give

vouchers and gift cards to a local storevouchers and gift cards to a local store Cross level current resources so that Cross level current resources so that

you may expand into new ministriesyou may expand into new ministries That we (our parish) are not alone in That we (our parish) are not alone in

our struggles large the church is and our struggles large the church is and that we are all working to helpthat we are all working to help

A lot of Orthodoxy is just showing upA lot of Orthodoxy is just showing up Idea of a spiritual life centerIdea of a spiritual life center God does not call to equip He equips God does not call to equip He equips

the calledthe called I learned people cannot get a social I learned people cannot get a social

security card without an addresssecurity card without an address


What I Learned What I Learned (cont’d)(cont’d)

Church property could and should be used not just on Sunday for the betterment of Church property could and should be used not just on Sunday for the betterment of those in need of spacethose in need of space

Don’t non-urban parishes need to evangelize too?Don’t non-urban parishes need to evangelize too? It is a better thing to feed the hungry than to raise the dead St John ChrysostomIt is a better thing to feed the hungry than to raise the dead St John Chrysostom Do not let space and bricks and mortar be the issue. Building a new church Do not let space and bricks and mortar be the issue. Building a new church

sometimes puts the focus on paying a mortgage and loses the focus on the ministry sometimes puts the focus on paying a mortgage and loses the focus on the ministry of the churchof the church

Stay where we are. Don’t move your church. Start a mission.Stay where we are. Don’t move your church. Start a mission. Possibilities of in parish free clinicsPossibilities of in parish free clinics Humane shelters model does not work; shelter first model more effectiveHumane shelters model does not work; shelter first model more effective I was inspired by the likeminded individuals that were talking an present at this time.I was inspired by the likeminded individuals that were talking an present at this time. Was enlightened to realize there is a great hope to help others & address problemsWas enlightened to realize there is a great hope to help others & address problems Need to provide a home setting first, the chances for success increase significantly & Need to provide a home setting first, the chances for success increase significantly &

people can grow long termpeople can grow long term Why shouldn’t our diocese or our deaneries NOT promote and facilitate urban Why shouldn’t our diocese or our deaneries NOT promote and facilitate urban

suburban partnerships? This should be an outcome of this conferencesuburban partnerships? This should be an outcome of this conference


Additional Day One Additional Day One PhotosPhotos


Workshop NotesWorkshop Notes

Day TwoDay Two

Fix This Urban ParishFix This Urban ParishThis section is based on specific mythical yet This section is based on specific mythical yet

recognizable case studiesrecognizable case studies


Fix this Urban ParishFix this Urban ParishCase 1 – Heritage parish in Decline

What are Key Strengths of this parish?What are Key Strengths of this parish? Parish life is still reasonably strongParish life is still reasonably strong Lots of possibilities if you stay in the neighborhoodLots of possibilities if you stay in the neighborhood The building is a curiosity generator. What more The building is a curiosity generator. What more

can we ask than people to approach with “honest can we ask than people to approach with “honest curiosity”.curiosity”.

A love is here. For one another; for heritage, for A love is here. For one another; for heritage, for buildingbuilding

The parish has great stories. (Though this can be a The parish has great stories. (Though this can be a negative also.)negative also.)

In some sense there is a past history of evangelistic In some sense there is a past history of evangelistic success with preaching the gospelsuccess with preaching the gospel

There has been sacrifice by those who were/are There has been sacrifice by those who were/are part of the parishpart of the parish



What assets and strengths are underutilized?What assets and strengths are underutilized? Look at leadership Look at leadership You have a pool of knowledge time resources to tap intoYou have a pool of knowledge time resources to tap into Question to ask: Why Me? Why Was I sent here?Question to ask: Why Me? Why Was I sent here? What about money Can tap into endowment? What about money Can tap into endowment? Endowment is not adequate – can create an illusion of successEndowment is not adequate – can create an illusion of success Current number of parishioners not enough to sustainCurrent number of parishioners not enough to sustain Trustee mentality –can they envision a real change?Trustee mentality –can they envision a real change? Is the congregation in love with the church – or with the buildingIs the congregation in love with the church – or with the building Can re-imagine this as a smaller urban parish in collaboration Can re-imagine this as a smaller urban parish in collaboration

with otherswith others Value newcomers – explore the waysValue newcomers – explore the ways Understand the history of the parish and the real story – to Understand the history of the parish and the real story – to

unlock myths and help apply similar energy to today’s unlock myths and help apply similar energy to today’s challenges. Rwquires sensitive pastoral approachchallenges. Rwquires sensitive pastoral approach

Board/parish council – time to ask/respond to new questionsBoard/parish council – time to ask/respond to new questions



What actions can we take?What actions can we take? Unlock any assumptions about Unlock any assumptions about

what /who we are?what /who we are? Hire a youth director – use Hire a youth director – use

endowment fundsendowment funds Ask two questions:Ask two questions:

Do you want to grow? Yes or No?Do you want to grow? Yes or No? If yes why? (If no why?)If yes why? (If no why?)

Are we satisfied with the way we live Are we satisfied with the way we live our life/lives in Christ?our life/lives in Christ?

What is the vision?What is the vision? What choices must be made?What choices must be made? Size of parish; engaging volunteers Size of parish; engaging volunteers

from the communityfrom the community Stay lean and mean (There were a Stay lean and mean (There were a

couple of sub themes that ran through couple of sub themes that ran through the discussion. Some seemed to push the discussion. Some seemed to push for a view of keeping the parish for a view of keeping the parish “small” 150 people; with strong “small” 150 people; with strong community; limited spending on staff community; limited spending on staff or programs.or programs.

What are the consequences of What are the consequences of notnot acting? acting?

What are you producing by your What are you producing by your behavior in the community behavior in the community (neighborhood) Love of Christ?(neighborhood) Love of Christ?

Interfaith collaborationInterfaith collaboration Keeping a beautiful spiritual Keeping a beautiful spiritual

landmark as part of the communitylandmark as part of the community Total community appreciationTotal community appreciation A responsibility of more than the A responsibility of more than the

parish other churches, deanery, parish other churches, deanery, diocesediocese

We are functional We are functional CongregationalistsCongregationalists

Where is the future of our Orthodox Where is the future of our Orthodox Church –from within? Staying lean Church –from within? Staying lean and mean.and mean.

Our children need to see Orthodoxy Our children need to see Orthodoxy as their faith – not the faith of their as their faith – not the faith of their parentsparents

Possibilities of clustering with Possibilities of clustering with Orthodox parishesOrthodox parishes

Pursue acts of engaging the Pursue acts of engaging the community using what Orthodox community using what Orthodox liturgical life does best.liturgical life does best.



Who Will Come to This Parish?Who Will Come to This Parish? Same kind of people who are already thereSame kind of people who are already there People who are “different” than are already therePeople who are “different” than are already there

University studentsUniversity students FacultyFaculty People inquiring about OrthodoxyPeople inquiring about Orthodoxy

Find out what attracted the newer parishionersFind out what attracted the newer parishioners Locals form neighborhoodLocals form neighborhood A robust educational program may attract people who are A robust educational program may attract people who are

interested in exploring Orthodoxyinterested in exploring Orthodoxy This parish, due to its heritage, distinctive edifice, hilltop This parish, due to its heritage, distinctive edifice, hilltop

perch and elder statesman status/stature can properly, yet perch and elder statesman status/stature can properly, yet humbly claim to be first among equals for the city of humbly claim to be first among equals for the city of “Rustville” . It can be a beacon for Orthodoxy. (almost “Rustville” . It can be a beacon for Orthodoxy. (almost literally) “literally) “Orthodox RustvilleOrthodox Rustville”. A right – no a duty – to be a ”. A right – no a duty – to be a magnet and the center for all local orthodox parishes..magnet and the center for all local orthodox parishes..


Fix this Urban ParishFix this Urban ParishCase 2– Deep Decline – 20 people left

Prayer needed; ask every monastery to pray for Prayer needed; ask every monastery to pray for this parishthis parish

Recolonize this parish. Recolonize this parish. Import 4 families, from other parishes, who want Import 4 families, from other parishes, who want

to be missionaries here in America. They can to be missionaries here in America. They can spend 6-24 months here or become permanent. spend 6-24 months here or become permanent.

Make sure a couple of these people are good Make sure a couple of these people are good singers. Much discussion on the importance of singers. Much discussion on the importance of strengthening liturgy – particularly singing. strengthening liturgy – particularly singing. Many felt this was an absolute necessity. Others Many felt this was an absolute necessity. Others less so.less so.

Make parish into an urban monastery.Make parish into an urban monastery. Address/understand the animosity that exists Address/understand the animosity that exists

between the urban and one suburban parish.between the urban and one suburban parish.Diocese of the Midwest - Orthodox Church in AmericaDiocese of the Midwest - Orthodox Church in America 2222

Fix This Urban Parish Fix This Urban Parish CASE 3 STAY OR GO?CASE 3 STAY OR GO?

Reasons to StayReasons to Stay Presence of church Presence of church

exhibits needexhibits need It’s easier to stayIt’s easier to stay This group can’t afford This group can’t afford

to leave and build a new to leave and build a new churchchurch

It would be hard to sell It would be hard to sell the building/ property; the building/ property; not that valuablenot that valuable

It is attractive on the It is attractive on the inside; welcominginside; welcoming

Reasons to GoReasons to Go Go –before it is too lateGo –before it is too late Neighborhood is hindering Neighborhood is hindering

potential for new growthpotential for new growth There seems to be no There seems to be no

desire for neighborhood desire for neighborhood outreach; is there a outreach; is there a reason to think this can reason to think this can change? If not why be change? If not why be therethere

The parish just needs a The parish just needs a change the myriad of change the myriad of efforts associated with a efforts associated with a move may provide a jump move may provide a jump startstart

No plan of outreachNo plan of outreach


Fix this Urban ParishFix this Urban ParishCase 2– Deep Decline – 20 people left

After this discussion the 40 or so people present were asked to After this discussion the 40 or so people present were asked to “vote” (as if they were parishioners) as to whether they would “vote” (as if they were parishioners) as to whether they would stay or go. Almost everybody voted to stay in this location.stay or go. Almost everybody voted to stay in this location.

What Would Change The DecisionWhat Would Change The DecisionAfter the vote we asked what factors might change the outcome of After the vote we asked what factors might change the outcome of

this vote. What would sway your decision to stay?this vote. What would sway your decision to stay? Take away one or more of the positives (reasons to stay)Take away one or more of the positives (reasons to stay) If it became apparent that, despite reasonable efforts, the If it became apparent that, despite reasonable efforts, the

community was incapable of change. (essentially wrt to community was incapable of change. (essentially wrt to neighborhood outreach). “We are who we are – and that’s it.”neighborhood outreach). “We are who we are – and that’s it.”

If it became physically dangerous for parishioners.If it became physically dangerous for parishioners. If it became logical to establish a new center in a new location. If it became logical to establish a new center in a new location.

(The church is today in center of its membership. If a (The church is today in center of its membership. If a preponderance of members seemed to over time be located in a preponderance of members seemed to over time be located in a particular quadrant of the city that might make a move more particular quadrant of the city that might make a move more logical or effective.)logical or effective.)

This parish can work to start a mission in the suburbs. This parish can work to start a mission in the suburbs. (But of (But of course this raises many questions which we did not time to work course this raises many questions which we did not time to work through.)through.)


Other Workshop Other Workshop SessionsSessions


Healthy vs. Unhealthy Healthy vs. Unhealthy Urban Parish Urban Parish

CharacteristicsCharacteristicsHealthyHealthy Liturgical servicesLiturgical services

Full scheduleFull schedule Ongoing prayerOngoing prayer The gang is not all there all the timeThe gang is not all there all the time Educational and promoting Educational and promoting

understandingunderstanding Vision of excellence and improvementVision of excellence and improvement Scheduling of servicesScheduling of services

Sensitivity to traffic etc. --Appropriate Sensitivity to traffic etc. --Appropriate timestimes

Well prepared and implemented Well prepared and implemented servicesservices

Community participationCommunity participation Mission to non English speakingMission to non English speaking Qualities of active service Qualities of active service

Need based not self servingNeed based not self serving Laity involvedLaity involved Gospel basedGospel based

Appreciation of Talents/giftsAppreciation of Talents/gifts Appreciation of diversityAppreciation of diversity Full spectrum of agesFull spectrum of ages CaringCaring

Not So HealthyNot So Healthy Attitude of we are here for “our Attitude of we are here for “our

people”people” Hostility toward neighborsHostility toward neighbors Fence, barbed wireFence, barbed wire Cheap stingyCheap stingy HoardingHoarding BingoBingo Poorly repairedPoorly repaired Building rich onlyBuilding rich only Lack of visionLack of vision Status quo visionStatus quo vision In fightingIn fighting


SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION ABOUT THEME ABOUT THEME

VOCATION OF AN URBAN PARISH IN THE 21VOCATION OF AN URBAN PARISH IN THE 21STST CENTURYCENTURY

Urban vs. SuburbanUrban vs. Suburban Intentional choiceIntentional choice OwnershipOwnership Material need (and opportunity) in Material need (and opportunity) in

urban setting is greaterurban setting is greater Problems in bothProblems in both Urban parish can set good exampleUrban parish can set good example


What is Needed from the Diocese/OCA to Assist Urban

Parishes Basics –scripture; liturgicsBasics –scripture; liturgics Language translationsLanguage translations Cluster coalitions across deaneries –urban suburban Cluster coalitions across deaneries –urban suburban

parishesparishes Cross jurisdictional collaborationCross jurisdictional collaboration Interfaith collaborationInterfaith collaboration Continue the process started in this summitContinue the process started in this summit Shared best practices –successful stuffShared best practices –successful stuff Policy on when to close a parishPolicy on when to close a parish What to do before you make a decisionWhat to do before you make a decision Clarification of legal issues regarding Clarification of legal issues regarding

closing/ownershipclosing/ownership A proactive approach –what to do whenA proactive approach –what to do when Use of the parish health modelUse of the parish health model


How Could this Summit Have How Could this Summit Have Been Improved?Been Improved?

Materials ahead of timeMaterials ahead of time Names of participants with contact Names of participants with contact

infoinfo More open space time for discussion More open space time for discussion

and dialogueand dialogue Fewer presentationsFewer presentations


Selected Feedback Selected Feedback Survey ResultsSurvey ResultsOnly 13 attendees filled out the post Only 13 attendees filled out the post summit survey – so you can be your summit survey – so you can be your

own judge as to whether these results own judge as to whether these results are an actual reflection – or not!are an actual reflection – or not!


Attendees BenefitsAttendees Benefits


Comments•Aside from St Gregory's, we're probably the farthest advanced in this, and we didn't need to be convinced of anything. But our group still found the conference very encouraging and useful.•Good networking was possible. Further opportunities would be great

Facilities CommentsFacilities Comments No problems.....close to hotel No problems.....close to hotel inspiring to see the cathedral and St. Michael Church inspiring to see the cathedral and St. Michael Church Food was fine....try to keep it healthy!!Food was fine....try to keep it healthy!! Would preferred to have stayed at the Cathedral location. It was a great 'on-Would preferred to have stayed at the Cathedral location. It was a great 'on-

site' location to work in. Well fed. Maybe some more yogurt or little less of the site' location to work in. Well fed. Maybe some more yogurt or little less of the sweets . sweets .

I thought the venues were excellent. Food was great. enjoyed the fellowship.I thought the venues were excellent. Food was great. enjoyed the fellowship. Fine - good hospitality.Fine - good hospitality. All were at least adequate.All were at least adequate. Well done!Well done! My delegate did observe that it was much easier to hear people at the My delegate did observe that it was much easier to hear people at the

Broadview Heights facility, than in the echo at St. Theodosius... although seeing Broadview Heights facility, than in the echo at St. Theodosius... although seeing St. Theodosius was a treat in itself, and gave us an urban context.St. Theodosius was a treat in itself, and gave us an urban context.

The meeting facility was adequate and appropriate for the meeting.The meeting facility was adequate and appropriate for the meeting. I thought both facilities were fine. If you are going to be talking about urban I thought both facilities were fine. If you are going to be talking about urban

issues, I think it helps to be in an urban environment. The stark differences issues, I think it helps to be in an urban environment. The stark differences between the two sites, really pointed out how they exist on almost two different between the two sites, really pointed out how they exist on almost two different planets.planets.

Great job by all. My first experience in participating in such a church event -- Great job by all. My first experience in participating in such a church event -- very eye opening and most enjoyable.very eye opening and most enjoyable.


If You Could Change Just If You Could Change Just One Thing…One Thing…

Provide an evening gathering so everyone could mingle and get to know each otherProvide an evening gathering so everyone could mingle and get to know each other A panel discussion might be something to consider. A panel discussion might be something to consider. Linking like parishes would have been better for small groups; at least that's my thinking. Linking like parishes would have been better for small groups; at least that's my thinking.

Perhaps begin with a parish sketch. Location. Major problems. Opportunities, etc. Would help to get a Perhaps begin with a parish sketch. Location. Major problems. Opportunities, etc. Would help to get a feel for the place.feel for the place.

More time the first day for discussion. fewer presenters and more group discussion.More time the first day for discussion. fewer presenters and more group discussion. A better mix/coordination of presentation and discussion, with a little tighter control. A better mix/coordination of presentation and discussion, with a little tighter control. I felt high jacked at times. (I felt high jacked at times. (essentially by attendees (priests) on soapboxesessentially by attendees (priests) on soapboxes )) Keep comments to 2 or 3 minutes.. Some improvement in speakers. People should keep to the Keep comments to 2 or 3 minutes.. Some improvement in speakers. People should keep to the

assignment. assignment. Keep to the schedule. Shorten the talks. Keep to the schedule. Shorten the talks. Okay, sue me.. but I would have liked a sermon from some theologically minded person, about the Okay, sue me.. but I would have liked a sermon from some theologically minded person, about the

biblical/gospel basis for this kind of ministry. I missed the pep talk, in other words, from an orthodox biblical/gospel basis for this kind of ministry. I missed the pep talk, in other words, from an orthodox theological point of view.theological point of view.

Have talks dealing not just with outreach, but also community dialogue techniques, as well as Have talks dealing not just with outreach, but also community dialogue techniques, as well as motivations within the parish. motivations within the parish.

Talks on partnering and its value would be good. Talks on partnering and its value would be good. More discussion and networking sessions. I heard some really powerful stuff. More discussion and networking sessions. I heard some really powerful stuff. You might have a specific focus next time, so that you can have specific actionable things that can be You might have a specific focus next time, so that you can have specific actionable things that can be

done. I think it was not clear what we were to take back and work on.Adone. I think it was not clear what we were to take back and work on.A Maybe for one exercise or brainstorming session, break-up the groups so you have networking an Maybe for one exercise or brainstorming session, break-up the groups so you have networking an

sharing of ideas in small groups.sharing of ideas in small groups.

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Worth Your Time?Worth Your Time?

Comments:Comments:• It recharged our batteries It recharged our batteries

and let us know that we are and let us know that we are not alone in this problem.not alone in this problem.

• Related to previous Related to previous experiences as a priest, but experiences as a priest, but not present parish situation.not present parish situation.

• More + than - as per More + than - as per evaluation.evaluation.

• Would do it again. Honesty Would do it again. Honesty is essential and I thought is essential and I thought people felt comfortable people felt comfortable enough to let their guard enough to let their guard down.down.


What do you now see as the most What do you now see as the most important challenge(s) facing Orthodox important challenge(s) facing Orthodox Urban parishes in the next ten years? Urban parishes in the next ten years?

Throwing good money after bad...... Upsetting the older parishoners who have Throwing good money after bad...... Upsetting the older parishoners who have said,"Keep these doors open until I am buried " said,"Keep these doors open until I am buried "

What could happen if there is a massive return to the city in the next 10 years....?What could happen if there is a massive return to the city in the next 10 years....? Staying alive for all that means. Staying alive for all that means. Staying focused on American issues avoiding anything diaspora. Staying focused on American issues avoiding anything diaspora. Connecting center and suburb. This one is needed by all kinds of groupings and Connecting center and suburb. This one is needed by all kinds of groupings and

perhaps especially religious groups.perhaps especially religious groups. Coping with and accommodating changing ethnic/linguistic demographics. Coping with and accommodating changing ethnic/linguistic demographics. Aging issues with congregations that are now mostly middle age.Aging issues with congregations that are now mostly middle age. Planting new parishes and generously reaching out to new populations from old Planting new parishes and generously reaching out to new populations from old

parishes.parishes. Putting good will and ideas into action. If the economy tanks too much, urban Putting good will and ideas into action. If the economy tanks too much, urban

situations will become more difficult.situations will become more difficult. Most urban parishes have expensive and growing maintenance costs - a very serious Most urban parishes have expensive and growing maintenance costs - a very serious

drain on financial resources. If they are to be a platform for ministries, ways have to drain on financial resources. If they are to be a platform for ministries, ways have to be found for these expensive assets to be at least as much revenue neutral as be found for these expensive assets to be at least as much revenue neutral as possiblepossible

Most urban parishes have expensive and growing maintenance costs - a very serious Most urban parishes have expensive and growing maintenance costs - a very serious drain on financial resources. If they are to be a platform for ministries, ways have to drain on financial resources. If they are to be a platform for ministries, ways have to be found for these expensive assets to be at least as much revenue neutral as be found for these expensive assets to be at least as much revenue neutral as possiblepossible

Embracing a new identity for the orthodox parishEmbracing a new identity for the orthodox parish Hate to use this -- but are we doing a good enough job marketing?Hate to use this -- but are we doing a good enough job marketing?


What do you now see as the most What do you now see as the most important challenge(s) facing Orthodox important challenge(s) facing Orthodox Urban parishes in the next ten years? Urban parishes in the next ten years?

Embracing the new opportunities in the evolving environment they find themselves. Embracing the new opportunities in the evolving environment they find themselves. The only alternative to embracing the new opportunities are to slowly fade out of The only alternative to embracing the new opportunities are to slowly fade out of existence. This would be unfortunate for those parishes and for the salvation and existence. This would be unfortunate for those parishes and for the salvation and well-being of the neighborhoods surrounding the parish.well-being of the neighborhoods surrounding the parish.

First, bringing more neighbors into our parishes. Save more souls.First, bringing more neighbors into our parishes. Save more souls. Become integrated parts of the fabric of the communities they live in and serve. The Become integrated parts of the fabric of the communities they live in and serve. The

change from ethnic homes is happening, but the transition to the next thing is the change from ethnic homes is happening, but the transition to the next thing is the dangerous and exciting place we find ourselves.dangerous and exciting place we find ourselves.

Maintaining our youth in our faith -- marriages to other faiths are taking many of our Maintaining our youth in our faith -- marriages to other faiths are taking many of our young adults away from our faith. young adults away from our faith.

Financial stability of small parishes who cannot group their efforts with other Financial stability of small parishes who cannot group their efforts with other Orthodox churches due to distance. Orthodox churches due to distance.

Major repair work that will need to be done to keep the temples open and accessible Major repair work that will need to be done to keep the temples open and accessible (ADA) assistive listening systems, HVAC over hauls, security and safety concerns of (ADA) assistive listening systems, HVAC over hauls, security and safety concerns of our buildings and property.... our buildings and property....

Tracking the movement of our graying members - ie, more and more people are Tracking the movement of our graying members - ie, more and more people are moving to other parts of the country for cost or weather or both - are we tracking this moving to other parts of the country for cost or weather or both - are we tracking this and developing strategic action plans to locate churchs or facilities for Orthodox? Not and developing strategic action plans to locate churchs or facilities for Orthodox? Not everyone moves to an area where there is an church or they need to travel great everyone moves to an area where there is an church or they need to travel great distances to the church, as you get older, you are less likely to travel that distance. distances to the church, as you get older, you are less likely to travel that distance.

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Did Your Opinion Did Your Opinion Change?Change?

Learned things, but Learned things, but believe we are on a believe we are on a genuine outreach track.genuine outreach track.

Desire to bring our Desire to bring our programs into better programs into better coordination and have a coordination and have a more holistic approach to more holistic approach to neighborhood outreach.neighborhood outreach.

I think it was a necessary I think it was a necessary and outstanding start!and outstanding start!

Enjoyed listening to what Enjoyed listening to what other churches are doing.other churches are doing.

I think folks at the I think folks at the summit know this. In fact summit know this. In fact it was really encouragingit was really encouraging


Documents

Contents Why have this Summit? Why have this Summit? Goals Goals Agenda Agenda Issues Faced by Urban Parishes Issues Faced by Urban Parishes Key Challenges