Despite its vital ministries, the construction of the subway and changes in the demographics in the Clarendon Community resulted in a much smaller active congregation than the almost 2,000 who attended in the 1950’s.  By 2002 the congregation was primarily senior adults and was not experiencing the continued growth necessary to sustain its many ministries and large church facilities.  Rather than discontinue ministry in its strategic location, the church elected to take some daring steps of faith.  Selling two houses the church owned, the money was used to begin a new contemporary service and to hire the staff necessary to reach out to the younger demographic that now lives in the community.  The church also decided to redevelop the majority of its physical plant to include a new ministry of affordable housing, with the construction of a new sanctuary and office space, and remodeling of the one remaining education building.  In addition, the church opened its facilities to a new seminary, The John Leland Center for Theological Studies.  The result is a church that is experiencing renewed growth and energy as God works through the church and its members to continue ministry to our community and throughout the world.