These can be especially beautiful, with their preserved architecture and stained-glass windows. Protecting and re-using these buildings for events like concerts and art shows helps preserve the history and uniqueness of a community.
It is often local and state preservation societies who advocate for landmark protections and who secure funding for restoration. For example, the Preservation League of NYS has a biennial list of “Seven to Save At-Risk Historic Sites” which can include churches, barns, old opera houses, historic districts and other properties.
Each May the New York Landmarks Conservancy organizes the annual Sacred Sites Open House Weekend, a free statewide opportunity to visit current and former churches of historical interest.
As restoration is expensive and time consuming, many old church buildings remain abandoned for years and eventually fall to ruin. Driving through any city or small town, one can see abandoned church buildings that once were beautiful sacred spaces, brimming with life and song…