First Congregational Church of Battle Creek

First Congregational Church of Battle Creek

Founded in 1836, First Congregational Church of Battle Creek (FCCBC) has a storied history deeply intertwined with the growth and development of the city of Battle Creek. While FCCBC's historical legacy is deeply respected, its contemporary impact shines brightly as a model of community engagement, social justice advocacy, and artistic empowerment. The church's dedication to values-driven action, its role as a hub for social services, and its unwavering commitment to championing justice and creativity make it an invaluable asset to Battle Creek's present and future. FCCBC's rich history has evolved into a dynamic modern narrative of service, inclusion, and positive transformation. 

FCCBC contracted with Partners for Sacred Places (Partners) to conduct a Discovery Study as part of a larger project to identify opportunities for its continued presence in the community, specifically those around the idea of the church facilities becoming a hub for the arts and spirituality in the downtown area. First Congregational Church has been a landmark in Battle Creek since the early 20th century, and the current congregation seeks to articulate a vision for the facilities that will ensure its significant and meaningful presence for many more years to come. The Discovery Study was the first component in this project; its purpose was to gain a detailed understanding of FCCBC’s role in the wider community and identify assets that can be leveraged to enhance and expand its role through conversations with congregants, staff, community stakeholders, and civic leaders.

Based on interviews and related research, Partners recommends that FCCBC carefully consider the many and varied recommendations and proposals based on new and potent interest in the facilities as a potential arts space in Battle Creek. Success in crafting a compelling and sustainable plan for the facilities will be the result of cooperative and faithful decision-making by the congregation and its community partners. This grant request funding will carry forward this planning process and support the early infrastructure changes and upgrades that will allow for sustainability of the building and its partners. Working with their partners and accomplices, FCCBC could fill a vital need in Battle Creek, and become a catalyst for sustainable development across the city. This would increase community investment in the restoration and upkeep of the historic facilities, lead to new partnerships that fully utilize the space, and increase FCCBC’s capacity to live out its mission.