Postmedia is losing their buildings. In shedding their buildings they get rid of expenses that could be better allocated. All the reporters will work remotely.
For centuries the church has shed buildings. Some of the magnificent museums in the world were once church buildings. As communities declined in population, facilities had their dedications lifted and another owner took on the maintenance.
But this feels a bit different. The struggle seems to be with the definition of community. At one time a social cohesion was dependant on relaying messages, giving announcements and sharing each other’s physical presence together. Our day and age has moved to virtual sharing, information relayed by digital means and trusting to be able to Zoom in to another’s presence.
Justification for a building used to be for the single-focus purpose of providing a community landing spot. Decor and utility were combined in an effort to direct both thought and person to God.
Now, . . . do we need buildings?