The Exploring Church Spaces Project
The Exploring Church Spaces (ECS) Project is a study being conducted through the Researcher in Residence (RiR) program of the Emmanuel Gospel Center (EGC). The RiR program is designed to elevate the work of committed Christian practitioners addressing key challenges in Boston by inviting them to join EGC’s research team for a season. Grounded in rigorous research standards, the RiR program conducts community-rooted research on key issues in Boston and develops useful resources for urban churches. The ECS Project explores challenges and opportunities that urban churches face in managing their spaces before highlighting sustainable and innovative property use.
The ECS Project’s research will expand to include alternative congregational models of using church space. Experiential learning field trips will be organized for leaders to foster connection and spark innovation. We also will engage stakeholders in Boston’s real estate ecosystem (including developers, architects, city planners, government officials, and church leaders) to create a systems map and convene discussions on collaborative strategies that address real estate pressures in the region while benefiting congregations. Lastly, we will synthesize the findings, develop practical written resources, and disseminate our findings broadly.
By fostering sustainable church property use, enhancing missional impact, and addressing critical challenges, the ECS Project exemplifies EGC’s commitment to mission-driven, community-centered transformational work.
Congregational and Community grants provide support for urban pastors, churches, faith-based community organizations, and theological institutions to share resources, ideas, and practices for life-giving ministry in cities across North America. Typically, we invite those who have not previously had access to resources or grant funding. This inaugural cohort of grantees included organizations working with children and youth, capacity building for a community. ministry, support for community healthcare, and research on congregational responses to the COVID-19 pandemic.
