From Mariemont Recreation Center to Global Impact Today

By Matthew Ayer

This is the third in a series of articles about the Thomas J. Emery Memorial Recreation Building. This article features some current activities that take place in our iconic clock tower building. With no Mariemont Company or philanthropic funds to financially support the building as a recreation center, the Emery Memorial sold the building to Mariemont Community Church (MCC) in 1954. MCC has continued to maintain this exquisite structure and conducted a major renovation in 2008.

The Building Today

In its 56th year, Mariemont Preschool occupies most of the lower level under the loving direction of Renee Brownfield. On the main floor, the updated auditorium is equipped with modern lighting, sound, and video capabilities to serve as MCC’s principal gathering place for Sunday worship.

The foyer retains its original stone floor, light fixtures, and distinctively stained wainscoting. Church administrative offices encompass the north (tennis court) end of the main floor and feature the original “hearth room.” A beautifully restored space with natural lighting, original wainscoting and a wall of books serves as the Senior Pastor’s office. One meeting space, the Baker Room, was named for the generous contributions Baker Concrete made to the renovations.

Describing the space’s transformation, church architect Philip Markwood noted, “It’s all about the Light.” activities. A large, renovated commercial kitchen lies between this space and the auditorium.

At the south end is the Emery Room, originally the ladies’ game room, and now is a space suited for large classes, group meals, or receptions. Its fireplace, windows, light fixtures, and outdoor terrace have been carefully preserved or restored. French doors connect the Emery Room to the original ladies’ parlor, which now serves as the The Meeting Room, used for various church and community meeting and

The Upper Room: Equipping Ministries International

Few Mariemont residents realize what happens on the upper floor in a beautifully renovated office and meeting space at the north end of the building. Founded more than 40 years ago, Equipping Ministries International (EMI) moved its headquarters to Mariemont in 2011. Its core mission is rooted in John 10:10(b): “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” EMI is passionate about experiencing the life, a state of wholeness and maturity, that Jesus intended. EMI equips not only pastors, ministry leaders, and missionaries – but also anyone seeking this abundant life.

A foundational step in EMI training is the “Creating Connection” course, which cont'd on page 4