Faith
Why Church Census Strengthens Our Community
Faith Facts
- The Churches of Christ rely on the “Churches of Christ in the United States” directory for their closest approach to a census, as there is no centralized data system.
- Collaborative organizations, including Heritage21, 21st Century Christian, Abilene Christian University’s Siburt Institute, and The Christian Chronicle formed the Church Research Council to carry out this vital research.
- The current survey, developed by sociologist Suzie Macaluso, aims to shed light on the health, identity, and unity of these congregations nationwide.
Accurate records help us understand how our faith community is growing, changing, and where we are called to strengthen bonds of fellowship.
These efforts affirm that every congregation, regardless of size or background, contributes to the greater mission of Christ’s church in America.
“I can go to a Church of Christ in any state and know pretty much what to expect,” Macaluso said. “But they are still radically different in terms of what they emphasize in theology and the lines they draw.”
Our diversity reflects the challenges and blessings wrought by autonomy and varying traditions, just as Paul and early church leaders grappled with unity among believers from different backgrounds.
As we strive for unity in Christ, gathering this information in love can help us answer the essential question: Who are we, as His body?
Let us participate with prayerful hearts, trusting that wise stewardship of information honors God and serves future generations of believers.