16 Sacred Sites Grants by the New York Landmark Conservancy have been awarded to historic religious properties throughout state.
Two of those 16 are in Rochester.
The Christ Church on East Avenue will receive $25,000 to assist in fixing the buckling wall on Lawn Street and the First United Congregational Church in Fairport will receive $5,000 to help fund sanctuary roof replacement.
Peg Breen, President of the Conservancy said it’s important to preserve these buildings that anchor their communities.
"Quite honestly I don’t think you have to be religious at all to understand that these are often the most beautiful and important buildings in a community. That they really tell the history of immigration patterns in New York, they tell different architectural stories."
Breen said these buildings represent more than just the congregations they house, often offering cultural and social service programs such as food pantries and AA meetings.
The conservancy also helps connect groups looking for rental space, such as art or dance groups with these buildings.
This year, the Conservancy awarded $178,500 in Sacred Sites Grants. The program began in 1986, and has since awarded some $10 million in grants preserving religious properties in New York.