Church buildings are being closed, demolished, or converted for secular use. It’s a reflection of developments within the churches, one that predates the abuse scandals. There is a shortage of young priests. More people are leaving the church, and those who remain members on paper are attending services less frequently. Consequently, real estate agents are adding former churches to their listings, calling them “special properties.” Who will the lucky buyers be? Some of the buildings are converted into apartments, others into cultural venues. Other proposed uses include studios, pubs, and even bicycle shops. But these walls are steeped in history and community. What becomes of the church when God moves out?
Chapter:
0:00 Intro
0:59 Real estate agent advertises church for sale
1:17 A Spanish architect has a plan
2:07 175,000 Euro – a bargain or a problem?
3:09 Final mass in St. Anna
4:33 Church statistics: rapidly declining membership
5:09 Repurposing ideas: library, concert hall
5:26 Students of architecture plan the future
8:32 From house of God to a bicycle shop
10:07 Essen: apartments and doctor’s office in old church
11:50 Back to the property-showing
#crisis #chruch #vacantproperties #dwindlingmembership
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