What does it take to build affordable and supportive housing in New York City today? And what does it take to sustain a house of worship? In the face of declining membership and rising maintenance costs, many churches are looking to develop housing on their properties — as a much-needed revenue stream and lifeline for their community. Church leaders at St. James Fordham in the Bronx partnered with a supportive housing developer to create new, resilient community spaces and “comfortable, safe, and gracious” homes for more than 100 residents, designed by Dattner Architects and completed last year. The affordable housing agreement provided urgently needed new homes for Bronx residents while supporting an ambitious renovation and restoration of the 161-year-old landmarked Episcopal church. This tour will visit newly restored portions of the church’s building, including the sacristy, community spaces in the new fellowship hall, and the new landscaped courtyard that ties together the old and new buildings. Architect Rachel Ehrlich, St. James’ Reverend Nathanael Saint-Pierre, and Bricks and Mortals’ executive director, Kate Toth will guide the tour. **_From Urban Omnibus: _**_Last year Urban Omnibus spoke with Bricks and Mortals’ Kate Toth about “[Holding on to the Halo Effect](https://urbanomnibus.net/2023/07/holding-on-to-the-halo-effect/)” and the ways that faith-based organizations are reimagining their buildings; and “[Building out of a Tight Spot](https://urbanomnibus.net/2024/01/building-out-of-a-tight-spot/)” to confront climate and housing crises with affordable and supportive housing architect Rachel Ehrlich. _ _See also: Finding space for new development alongside elevated train tracks in “[Transit Oriented](https://urbanomnibus.net/2023/11/transit-oriented/)” and the many meanings and modes of affordability in “[Housing Brass Tacks](https://urbanomnibus.net/series/housing-brass-tacks/).” _