Three historic Indianapolis churches were awarded grants on Oct. 27 from Indiana Landmarks’ Sacred Places Indiana Fund. The grants total $350,000 and will be used for essential repairs to the structures of Ebenezer Baptist Church, United Methodist St. Timothy’s Church, and Irvington Episcopal Church.
Preserving faith‑based heritage
All three congregations are recognized for their architectural and cultural significance. Ebenezer Baptist, founded in the early 20th century, has long served the city’s African‑American community. United Methodist St. Timothy’s, a cornerstone of the south side, dates back to the 1800s, while Irvington Episcopal, located in the historic Irvington neighborhood, is celebrated for its Gothic‑revival design.
The Sacred Places Indiana Fund, established in 2023 with support from the Lilly Endowment Inc., aims to protect Indiana’s historic religious landmarks. This year’s round of awards is part of a broader $2.5 million statewide effort to assist congregations with significant building needs.
Additional support statewide
Beyond Indianapolis, thirteen other churches across Indiana received funding from the same program. The grants vary in size but share the common goal of preserving the state’s religious heritage for future generations.
Indiana Landmarks’ executive director emphasized that “faith communities are integral to Indiana’s history, and preserving their historic spaces strengthens the cultural fabric of our towns and cities.” The organization encourages additional congregations to apply when the next round opens in January 2027.
How churches can apply
Congregations interested in future funding should submit a letter of interest outlining the condition of their building, the historical significance of the property, and a proposed preservation plan. Detailed application guidelines will be posted on the Indiana Landmarks website in early January.
Mirror Indy, a nonprofit newsroom funded by grants and donations, reported the story. Reporter Elizabeth Gabriel, who covers the south side of Marion County, can be reached at [email protected] or on X at @_elizabethgabs.
Original reporting: Mirror Indy — read the source article.
