Religion and the Urban Renaissance

Welcome back!

The urban renaissance began in the early 80′s with the rise of new urbanism.  We’ve been “reinventing” our cities for over 20 years.  But it wasn’t until the Green Movement took hold that other key segments of the community, like the church, decided to fly the new urbanism flag. .

New urbanism has for so many years been an obsession of planners, builders and a few enlightented folk, that the language used to promote this movement never quite resonated with the key target audience – the average citizen, including those people who may share the perspective I bring to this blog – “moms.”

I’ve often wondered where religion fit in this “movement” and today I read one of the most positive responses to new urbanism that I’ve come across to date.  That response was from (gasp!) a Baptist church minister.

Here’s an excerpt from the article:

“For some 20 years, America’s cities have seen a reverse migration from the suburbs to increasingly vibrant downtowns, where the new urban dwellers are finding an array of lofts and condominiums, restaurants and clubs, lively street festivals and vibrant art and music. The urban neighborhoods are attracting artists, musicians and others of what sociologist Richard Florida calls the “creative class,” as well as professionals, students and retirees—all seeking the energy and spontaneity often missing in the suburbs……To connect with the new urbanites, churches in their midst reflect a potent blend of artistic integrity, authentic community and groundedness—a sense of place that might surprise suburban dwellers—while also navigating the tricky terrain of increased diversity and toleration.

“The creative class moves around a lot, and so they’re attracted by the idea of being rooted,” said Chris Backert, co-pastor of Imago Dei, a new church gathering people from Richmond’s Fan and Museum districts. “That’s why you find them in older, renovated urban neighborhoods, because they find there a sense of rootedness.”

The full article can be read here.