St. Andrew’s one of many churches looking for a purpose
Driving along Tzouhalem Road I am always struck by the dozen or so churches located opposite Cowichan Tribes Lands. Some denominations have lamented large, ongoing drops in attendance — not just due to COVID. Since maintenance costs continue to rise, the United Church for example is currently closing about one church a week throughout Canada.
Generally speaking, churches are centrally located within the community, making them ideal for non-religious community activities too. Already they are being re-purposed to host daycares, food hubs, musical and theatrical events, club meetings, seniors events, counselling groups, warming shelters, etc., while continuing to be places of quiet contemplation. Cowichan Station residents are beginning this discussion about the future role of St. Andrew’s Church.
We should not forget that churches were often constructed using funding from the local community, and have enjoyed tax-free status during their existence. For all of these reasons, we should be careful about how we allow these special community assets to be disposed of, as they are sold off or scrapped, demolished or developed in the future. A half hour CBC interview on this topic from last Dec. 10 is certainly worth a listen: “Why Canada’s 27,000 faith buildings are crucial for communities”.
Bruce Coates
Duncan