FROM THE INTRODUCTION: This volume is being published as the United States enters the eight month of a global pandemic. The future is as uncertain as it has ever been. Many religious leaders have closed their buildings to public worship while still continuing to feed, clothe, and tend to the vulnerable in their communities. The ability to care for religious buildings may feel more tenuous now than at any point in my lifetime, and perhaps these structures have never been needed more. God knows how this will all turn out. We often preach that the task of the spiritual life is to take a long, loving look at the real. Meaning that we are called to face life's challenges with care, sensitivity, honesty, and as much wisdom as we can gather, trusting that on the other side of the challenge is new life. For those of us who use and care about the sacred places in our communities, this Guide will help in taking a long, loving look at the reality of religious properties. May we do so in hope, trusting that on the other side of these current challenges is new life for the sacred places we love.