Starting something new: A good practice guide to new worshipping communities
A guide to inspire and equip churches in growing a flourishing community
OVER 1400 NEW WORSHIPPING COMMUNITIES (NWCs) were launched in the Church of England in 2025, from across the breadth of traditions and across the breadth of the country.
This guide introduces New Worshipping Communities (NWCs) and is designed to help churches explore fresh ways of proclaiming the gospel to people who may not connect with traditional church expressions. It combines inspiring stories, practical insights, and useful resources to encourage churches to start something new in their local context.
Through real-life examples such as Forest Church, Toast Church, Bubble Church, Pub Missional Community, Seeds of Hope, Sinfin Moor New Housing Estate, and Don Urdu Fellowship, this guide shows how churches are responding creatively to the needs of their communities and seeing new life and flourishing faith.
Read the full report below:
Next Steps
Prayerful reflection
As you reflect on these stories, consider:
- Paying Attention: What is God already doing in your community?
- People: Who has been sent to you who could join you in praying and exploring new possibilities?
- Purpose: Who are you being sent to?
- Partners: What training, resources, or local partnerships could support you?
Our top tip: start with the resources you already have, keep the invitation open, be prayerful and patient, and measure success by faithfulness rather than numbers.
A deeper dive
Want to explore further? Discover more about New Worshipping Communities through videos, webinars, inspiring stories, and practical guides.
Take a closer look at: Bubble Church, Forest Church, Wild Church and Estates Ministry.
Our top tip: search for ‘new worshipping communities’ in our keywords to uncover additional resources, examples, and support.
