In this episode, Thom looks at one of the surprising findings from the 2023 FACT (Faith Communities Today) study. The research shows that more than seven out of ten churches share their facilities with other organizations. Thom explores why so many churches are opening their doors, what kinds of groups they are hosting, and how this trend impacts both the church and the community.
This number comes from the 2023 Faith Communities Today (FACT) survey, one of the most comprehensive studies of U.S. congregations, conducted every five years since 2000. The 2023 survey included responses from over 15,000 congregations across denominations and traditions.
The FACT report notes that 70.5% of congregations share their buildings with other groups — including nonprofits, community organizations, government programs, and even other churches.
(Source: FACT 2023 Summary Reports; UCC FACT 2023 Release)
Resources:
Wesley Biblical SeminaryUpward SportsUpward Sports: PickleballFACT 2023 Summary ReportsThe Hope InitiativeChurch Answers Platinum MembershipFREE Research Report: New Surprising InsightsEpisode Sponsor:
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