THE MOST WELCOMING PLACE
Recent social buzz in Kokomo includes mention of a quirky little building called S.O.L. House, shared with the community by St. Andrew Episcopal Church. The Kokomo Post says it’s “the most welcoming place in Kokomo:”
Tucked right in the heart of downtown, SOL House isn’t your typical spot – it’s a true community hub with a vibe that feels like a friend’s living room, but one you actually want to hang out in… full of whimsy and comfort. …It’s your best friend’s house – if your best friend had an open-door policy, a cozy atmosphere, and an impressive collection of books that will make you want to stay all day.
… No matter who you are or what you’re into, you’ll find a spot to be yourself here. It’s all about connection, comfort, and a little creative freedom. After all, that’s what SOL House stands for: Spirit of Life.
S.O.L. House is a former retail building adjacent to the church parking lot, purchased by St. Andrew in 1994 for youth and community ministry. The Rev. Richard Lightsey, Rector, says that over the years, its function has evolved to mirror the mission of St. Andrew as “an Episcopal Church in the heart of Kokomo; with a heart for Kokomo and beyond." The mission also proclaims, “We embrace and encourage everyone on their personal journey toward feeling closer to the heart of God."
“The welcome and accessibility of S.O.L. House has demonstrated the idea that people and groups and even organizations other than the members of St. Andrew, can find a place of welcome, warmth, and belonging upon these sacred grounds and dwellings,” says Father Richard.
S.O.L. House operates with 15+ volunteers from the parish and the community as it is open to the public Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm, and Saturday 10am-2pm. Groups using the space include a “Telling Your Stories” Writing Circle,” Last Thursdays Lunch Brunch, Community Drum & Sound Circle, Kokomo Pride Adult Social Group, “We’re With the Banned” Book Club, and a weekly visit by Bona Vista, DCI adult services, for "Story & Book Club."
The pandemic heightened Fr. Richard’s realization that “the beauty and majesty of the [church grounds and buildings] space was not sufficient to justify their existence...they and I longed for a vibrant community in kitchen, dining room, classroom, atrium, sanctuary, office, and lobby.”
St. Andrew used a capital grant from Phase 1 of CBCP to install a walk-in shower in the S.O.L. House restroom so the space can be offered as an overnight personal and small group retreat. St. Andrew was awarded a capital grant in Phase 2 of CBCP to make the restroom more accessible, and to continue the transformation of the lower level of the church building as the “7 Seasons Café” (named derived from the seven liturgical seasons).
The vision for the Café is to be a place where the public is served and given access for small and large public and private dining events, communal meals, conversation, workshops, cooking classes, family meal prep and planning, and fresh food processing. In addition to hosting traditional parish functions, the 7-Season’s Café currently hosts book clubs on Sunday mornings and monthly supper clubs on the fourth Sunday of the month.
The Church Buildings for Collaborative Partnerships experience resonated with St. Andrew’s heart and mission. Fr. Richard says the CBCP partnership, investment, and expertise helped increase “the loving occupancy and community” experienced at St. Andrew.
By CBCP Project Director Linda Buskirk
For more information contact:
info@cbcpindiana.org