New Building, Art Space, Studio Consecrated at Holy Family HTX

Holy Family HTX Episcopal hosted a celebration of dedication and consecration of its new building last April 2022. Approximately 70 diocesan and congregational leaders gathered at the 900-square-foot building at 3719 Navigation Blvd. in east downtown Houston.

With the generous support from the Great Commission Foundation and the Diocese of Texas, Hill Swift Architects turned the former meat packing plant into a modern center for creativity, curiosity, and communion.

“We are honored to be part of this missional diocese,” said the vicar of Holy Family, HTX, the Rev. Jacob Breeze. “We thank God for the generosity of the diocese and foundations that helped make this celebration a reality. This space is a deeper gesture towards future diocesan ministry.”

The grand opening of the building took place on Palm Sunday, welcoming over 150 attendees. Breeze, who initiated the community as a church planter, informed the community that Holy Family HTX wants to be a church for people without a church.

“We fundamentally believe that Jesus Christ is alive and let loose on the world,” he said. “Therefore, our task is to keep up with him: It’s his ministry and we are the participants. Together, we lead Jesus-centered lives by pursuing four things: deep one-to-one connections with each other; the flourishing of the arts and the artists who help us see more clearly what it is to be truly human; theological learning that is clear about the church’s understandings, doesn't deflect questions and doubts, and never demands fake agreement in order to remain friends; and finally, to celebrate communion with the living God.”

The new space also houses the Lanecia Rouse Tinsley Gallery, which features different art installations throughout the year and is named in honor of an artist-in-resident partner. The studio will inspire people of all ages to explore the intersection of creativity and spirituality through various art mediums. A conference room to encourage curiosity for theological learning through classes, lectures, and workshops.

Holy Family HTX seeks to offer a place where community coalitions, artists, scholars, and groups can gather, dream, and be inspired.