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The ecumenical Capital Region Theological Center is entering a period of "organizational dormancy" at the turn of the new year.

The CRTC, based in Albany, sponsors and hosts classes and other educational events to help spread awareness about different faiths. Originally created by four Protestant denominations to aid in sharing ministers and resources, the center eventually turned its focus to equipping various faith communities "with tools for developing and expressing faith; connecting people and resources, creating community; and inspiring a commitment to renewed discipleship and spiritual growth."

In the 15 years since its inception, the CRTC has offered presentations on Scripture and other topics related to faith. Rev. George Brennan, pastor of Our Lady of Hope parish in Copake Falls and a CRTC board member for eight years, said he has been able to "pick the brains" of clergy members of other denominations to help in his parish ministry.

"Several times, I've picked up the phone and said, 'I need some consultation on this issue,'" he said, noting that ecumenical ties are important to his ministry.

Starting in January, the CRTC will halt its services for an undetermined period of time.

"The organization has encountered some financial difficulties," explained the Rev. Abby Norton-Levering, a representative with the CRTC and ministries coordinator for the Albany Synod of the Reformed Church of America.

She said that most ecumenical groups have a hard time finding funding. The CRTC had been funded by a four-year grant from The Lilly Endowment that ended this year.

The board stressed that this is not the end of the CRTC. Instead, they will be creating a committee to help with the reconstruction and reorganization of the group.

"To work together with people who represent the wider dimension [of] what 'church' is all about has been exciting," Father Brennan said, noting that he hopes that this is a time to explore new possibilities.

"The church everywhere is undergoing a lot of changes," Rev. Norton-Levering said, referring to many denominations. "Churches everywhere are having to change and become more flexible. We have to become more flexible; we have to become more responsive. How we 'do church' has to change with the times."

The board members believe that CRTC will be able to function in the future, but will likely rely more on volunteers than paid staff. However, that will not change its mission.

(For more information, call 518-462-2470 or go to www.crtc.org.)[[In-content Ad]]

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