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Season 13: Church Property: Imagining Good Futures | Episode 12

How Does Legacy Shape Church Property Decisions?

Overview

This week, Shannon Hopkins and Rev. Mark Elsdon continue their takeover of the Igniting Imagination podcast, diving into the transformative power of church property as a catalyst for community renewal. They’re joined by Dr. Joseph W. Daniels, Jr., who shares the inspiring story of Emory Fellowship in Washington, D.C., and its groundbreaking Beacon Center project.

Together, we discuss how churches can rethink their assets to better serve their communities—exploring the concept of legacy, the influence of the past on the present, and the lasting impact of today’s decisions on future generations. Through innovative partnerships and a commitment to human flourishing, Emory Fellowship offers a powerful example of what’s possible when faith communities step into their full potential.

Listen this week as we explore how churches can think beyond their walls and embrace their role as agents of lasting change.

In this conversation, you’ll hear:

  • Church property plays a vital role in fostering community well-being, urging congregations to reimagine their spaces for greater impact.

  • The importance of understanding historical context in church property usage, highlighting how legacy informs current and future endeavors.

  • Collaboration is necessary between churches and local communities to effectively address issues such as affordable housing and food insecurity.

Meet Our Guest

Rahel Billups

Dr. Joseph W. Daniels, Jr.

Dr. Joseph W. Daniels, Jr. is a husband, father, pastor, author, prophetic imaginer, and leader dedicated to growing God's kingdom. For 31 years, he has led Emory United Methodist Church in Washington, D.C., where he also served as District Superintendent for three years, achieving growth in key metrics. Under his leadership, Emory's congregation has increased from 55 to 400 attendees. In 2019, the church completed a $60 million development project, providing 99 units of affordable housing. Emory, known as a "REAL Church for Real People," focuses on leading people to whole lives and has received awards for its impactful urban ministry. The church is also recognized as a key resource center for the United Methodist Church's "Strengthening the Black Church for the 21st Century" initiative.

Show Notes

Dr. Joseph W. Daniels, Jr. is a husband, father, pastor, author, prophetic imaginer, and leader dedicated to growing God's kingdom. For 31 years, he has led Emory United Methodist Church in Washington, D.C., where he also served as District Superintendent for three years, achieving growth in key metrics. Under his leadership, Emory's congregation has increased from 55 to 400 attendees. In 2019, the church completed a $60 million development project, providing 99 units of affordable housing. Emory, known as a "REAL Church for Real People," focuses on leading people to whole lives and has received awards for its impactful urban ministry. The church is also recognized as a key resource center for the United Methodist Church's "Strengthening the Black Church for the 21st Century" initiative.

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More From Season 13: Church Property: Imagining Good Futures

Episode 11

Are Taxes Distracting Us from Bigger Church Property Issues?

With Rev. Dr. Patrick Duggan

Episode 10

How Can Church Property Bring Repair?

With Rev. Chris de la Cruz and Rev. Melissa O’Keefe Reed

Episode 9

How Can Church Property Serve the Neighborhood?

With Joe Bowling

Episode 8

What Can Partnerships Unlock for Church Property?

With Brenda Halverson and Rev. Staci Maurice-Wheeler

Episode 7

How Can Rural Churches Innovate with Their Building and Land?

With Pastor Kevin Riley

Episode 6

Besides Housing, What Are Other Ideas for Re-Imagining Church Property?

With Rev. Chrisy Ennen

Episode 5

How Do We Handle Resistance to Church Property Changes?

With Rev. Sharon Core

Episode 4

What’s the Path to Church Property Changes?

With Pastor Jessica Lowry

Episode 3

How Does Theology Shape Church Property Decisions?

With Dr. Willie James Jennings

Episode 2

Why Are We Talking About Church Property?

With Bob Smietana

Episode 1

Church Property: Imagining Good Futures

With Shannon Hopkins