Throughout history, church buildings have stood in marked contrast to other buildings in our communities.

From high ceilings, elaborate columns and steeples that touched the sky to realistic paintings, ornate crosses and stained-glass windows that told biblical stories—early church structures were physically designed to point people toward God.

Today, the picture is far different. Whether driven by Church trends, finances or simply a lack of priority or understanding, the look and feel of Christian churches has taken a turn in many cases to the ordinary and mundane.

The Making Space project suggests growing opportunities for church leaders to connect with current members and attract new congregants in fresh ways, starting with a more intentional approach to the places they meet. This research is to help leaders find value in the physical spaces they occupy and make space count spiritually.