A decade ago, church planters across Boston stepped out in faith, planting seeds of ministry in a city known for both its deep spiritual heritage and shifting cultural landscape. Now, ten years later, we return to these communities—not just to measure growth but to listen. What has changed? What challenges have reshaped their vision? What unexpected joys and struggles have marked their journey?

The Church Landscape Review is more than a study; it’s a window into the lived experiences of pastors navigating the evolving realities of ministry in Boston. In 2014, we identified 100 church plants in the Boston area, and we interviewed the pastors of 41 of them. In 2024, we had the privilege of reconnecting with many of the lead pastors of these now-established churches as they reflected on the shifting dynamics within their ministries and communities.

We have gathered our findings in a series of reports we will release periodically throughout 2025. The Executive Summary Report provides a broad introduction to the study along with major data trends. This will be followed by reports on the project organized around four different themes:

We hope this study provides pastors, church planters, networks, and training institutions with valuable insights, encouragement, and fresh inspiration for the next decade of ministry. By fostering a deeper understanding of how churches continue to faithfully engage their communities in our ever-changing city, we seek to support and strengthen those faithfully serving in the Boston area.

*Titles are subject to change.

 

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