New project maps fresh expressions of church

When Triple J, the ABC youth radio station, uses ‘emerging church’ as their Buzzword of the Week, it is time for church researchers to get to work. “We are seeking all new ventures and hope that they make themselves known to us,” says Dr Ruth Powell, NCLS researcher.

Talk of fresh expressions of church or the ‘emerging church’ has become more prevalent over the last decade. “It is a priority for NCLS to attend to fresh expressions of church. In this new project we hope to create an exploratory map, share stories of experiments and new life, as well as, perhaps, providing a point of contact that encourages mutual support,” said Ruth.

A ‘new venture’ is defined as any Christian initiative (such as worship service, gathering, mission activity, network etc) that commenced since 1991 ie currently less than 15 years old. “In this initial stage, we plan to throw the net as wide as possible,” said Ruth.

“We are also interested in ventures that no longer exist, as they will help provide clues about sustainability”, added Ruth.

The exploratory phase of the project commences in April 2005. It will continue alongside the 2006 National Church Life Survey, however the team will also need to use a range of different methods to gather both data and stories for this project.

In the future, the project will aim to explore questions of health and vitality. What is required for a new initiative to be effective and sustainable?

If you are part of a fresh expression of church, or know of one, please register at Innovations or contact: Ruth Powell PO Box A2178 Sydney South 1235 or rpowell@ncls.org.au

Go to New Initiatives Project website