Our Sacred Sites staff successfully resumed statewide visits to 10 religious institutions applying for assistance with restoration projects. Colleen Heemeyer went from Binghamton to Rochester. Ann Friedman traveled to Albany and north to the Vermont border. They reviewed projects that ranged from roof replacement to masonry restoration.
“I missed that personal connection you get on a site visit,” noted Heemeyer. “It’s not only about architecture. I always leave site visits feeling inspired by the programming and services our applicants provide in their communities. When we help fund a roof replacement or window restoration, we’re helping these historic buildings stay in service.”
Conservancy trustees Sheila Parekh-Blum and Gus Christensen joined several recent New York City site visits. They saw Trinity Lutheran on the Upper West Side, which is reconstructing its steeple, and Church of the Heavenly Rest on Fifth Avenue in Carnegie Hill, which is launching a major exterior restoration project. In addition to hosting the Trinity Place Shelter for homeless LGBTQIA+ youth and young adults, Trinity Lutheran provides social services and cultural programs serving over 2,000 community members annually, while Heavenly Rest’s public programming serves well over 7,000 individuals.
“I loved learning about the programming and services offered by Trinity Luthern and Church of the Heavenly Rest,” said Conservancy Vice-Chair Sheila Parekh-Blum. “Both churches responded quickly to the changing needs of our communities during the height of the pandemic, and really exemplify the spirit of New York.“
The Conservancy brings religious landmarks from around the City and State to you, via our 11th annual Sacred Sites Open House. Join us for interactive digital “tours” and lectures throughout the month of August.