Church Landscape Review: Open Doors in Boston

Church Landscape Review: Open Doors in Boston

Boston is often described as a secular city on par with the metropolises of Europe that have seen a significant decline in Christianity. But research shows a different narrative emerging.

The Applied Research team at the Emmanuel Gospel Center conducted the Church Landscape Review project in 2024. In this survey of new and growing churches across Greater Boston, we found that God is at work in our city and region. 

As part of the research, the team asked the pastors of these churches for stories of God working through the church to bring people to faith and serve people in the broader community.

The stories that emerged are varied and beautiful—stories of healing, community partnerships, long journeys to faith, and moments of encounter with God. They reflect what is possible when churches open their doors and hearts to their neighborhoods, step into the needs around them, and follow God’s lead with creativity and courage. 

Each story includes a reflection question to help you engage more deeply. Whether you’re a church leader, an aspiring church planter, or simply someone curious about the spiritual landscape of this city, we hope these questions invite you to pray, reflect, and imagine what God might do in your context.

As you read, please note that names and identifying details of people, churches, and organizations have been changed or omitted to protect privacy.