"Even the sparrow finds a home, and the swallow a nest for herself . . ." Psalm 84:3

Over 120 members of Christ Church Cathedral gathered together on Sunday, May 2, 2010, to learn about an ambitious proposal from its housing committee for a possible housing initiative for the cathedral. The housing committee, which is part of the mission and outreach committee, explained its research into community housing needs and its conclusion that the church should sponsor a permanent supportive housing project. The committee further proposed that the church partner in the project with National Church Residences, a faith-based organization with headquarters in Columbus, Ohio.

Canon John Johanssen moderated a question-and-answer period. At the conclusion of the session, those present were invited to indicate their preference for moving forward. While many had firm feelings both for moving forward or not, there were equally as many who indicated that they would like more information before making any decision on such an important issue.

At its May meeting, the cathedral vestry considered the results and concluded that this decision-making process-and other mission decisions-would be well served by first having a thorough discussion of all the church's mission strategies, including spiritual as well as practical foundations. Cathedral members will be hearing about such a discussion in the coming months.

History

Two years ago, our mission and outreach committee formed a study group to investigate low-income housing issues in the urban core and suggest how the congregation could become involved in addressing those issues. The task proved to be extensive and complex, but the study group, known as the housing committee, was able to develop a mission strategy.

In May, the committee called an informal version of a parish meeting for cathedral members to hear the proposal. The agenda included brief presentations by committee members and by low-income housing expert Michelle Norris of National Church Residences. Ms. Norris is vice president for development at NCR, which is based in Columbus, Ohio. NCR was started in the 1960s by four Ohio Presbyterian churches and has grown into a respected developer of senior citizen and low-income housing in many parts of the United States. The housing committee proposed that the cathedral work with NCR.

At the parish meeting, cathedral members were able to voice their opinions, and the committee is taking this input under consideration before taking the next step.

Housing committee members include chair Michael Bootes, Dave Eschenbach, Don Lenz, Mark Mahoney, Mark Sackett and the Rev. Richard Schmidt. Other cathedral members have assisted at various times, and Canon Joanna Leiserson has been the committee's clergy liaison.

For more information about the work of our housing committee:
Frequently Asked Questions
Meeting Minutes

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