Faith buildings – churches, mosques, temples, synagogues and more – are usually at the centre of most cities, showcasing a long and rich history. But with ancient buildings come expensive renovations and high risk. We look at why they are so vital to communities, towns and cities and how we can further protect them.
Heritage and culture
Whichever religion or faith you believe in, we can appreciate the heritage of a city as soon as we enter it. Home or abroad, these buildings consistently portray a riveting story. Many were once at the centre of historic controversy or faced catastrophes such as fires or storm damage. Some were sacked by enemies. Either way, the culture and history of many cities can be found at the heart of a faith building.
Faith tourism
People travel all around the world to see historic faith buildings or undergo ritual pilgrimages such as that seen at Mecca, where more than 2 million Muslims take the journey each year. Such pilgrimages require extra-special dedication and the faith building they are heading towards is at the centre of this.
Faith and aid
Faith groups have similar objectives to local governments and charitable organisations: to work for the betterment of communities. Faith groups are a vital asset to communities in supporting even hard-to-reach individuals who may not engage with other members of society. For this reason, faith buildings can become a place of respite and prayer, a hospice for those who need it.
Architecture and art
Even despite all the remarkable work faith organisations do and faith buildings symbolise, it can be their architectural prowess which can attract even non-religious people. It’s thought that more than 2 million people visit York Minster each year, 2.6 million people visit Cambodia’s Angkor Wat while around 21 million people visit India’s Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi each year.
Spirituality in the community
It might be said that for many communities, buildings of faith and religion are the glue that holds it all together. Even in areas where believers of faith or religion dwindle, these buildings still have their place at the heart of communities.
If you are a trustee or committee member of a religious building, the Chartered church insurance experts at Hine can help you. Insurance features could include cover for damage to buildings and outbuildings, contents and religious artefacts, accidental damage, malicious damage, liability insurance for a range of purposes and much more.
For a bespoke policy designed specifically around your requirements, call us today on 0161 438 0000.
