Click the links below for research on these featured topics. Use our quick search tool to explore other subjects
Linda Nicholls, Retired Archbishop and Priest, Anglican Church of Canada; Father James Mallon, Priest, Catholic Diocese of Nova Scotia; Sara Han, Assistant Professor of Pastoral Ministry at Tyndale University
In September 2024, Nova Scotia passed legislation declaring an epidemic of domestic violence, joining 95 municipalities in Ontario that had already done so. Violence most often occurs in intimate relationships, like the family. In 2018, 44% of women and 36% of men in Canada reported experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) since the age of 15. Nearly 60% of Canadians have experienced some form of child maltreatment, including physical and sexual abuse, exposure to IPV, emotional abuse, and neglect.
Violence and abuse happen across all types of relationships and backgrounds—economic, ethnic, and social. It involves physical, sexual, emotional, spiritual, and financial abuse to control and maintain power. This reality can be discouraging for Christians. Many wonder, “How can domestic violence happen in our church family, where we profess to live God’s love through Christ?”
Katie Steeves, Associate Director of Research at the Flourishing Congregations Institute, and Assistant Professor of Sociology at Trinity Western University
Arch Wong, Professor of Practical Theology and Associate Director of the Flourishing Congregations Institute at Ambrose University
Mike Wood Daly, Director of Research for Relèven, President of Sphaera Research, and Research Director for the Halo Canada Project
Joel Thiessen, Professor of Sociology, Chair of the Social Sciences department, and Director of the Flourishing Congregations Institute at Ambrose University
Perceived spiritual openness, increased prioritization on evangelism, and greater clarity on the purposes of evangelism are among the more surprising findings in this 2024 study with Alpha Canada, with over 800 Canadian church leaders. This report also includes data and opportunities for congregation leaders in areas of prayer, inviting people to evangelistic contexts, and celebrating new followers of Jesus.
Where are signs of life in Canadian congregations, and what can we learn from them?
Evangelistic beliefs, behaviours, experiences, and challenges vary by theological tradition and frequency of church attendance. This Canadian research explores these topics based on survey data with over 9100 people in 250+ congregations.
A key marker of congregational flourishing is discipleship, where followers of Jesus are transformed and mature in their Christian faith. This study with over 9100 people in 250+ churches in Canada explores discipleship practices and processes that help to facilitate spiritual growth among congregants. Learnings center on the ways denominational tradition matters for how groups disciple their members, plus the importance of a welcoming, safe, and caring congregational context for effective discipleship.
The Flourishing Congregations Institute researches the Canadian Church, interpreting and sharing data with church leaders across the country.
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