Volume 1: Making Space for Inspiration

In Volume 1, we set the foundation to better understand the characteristics of certain spaces and how people commonly interact with them. Just as a visitor might journey through your church building, we start with an overview of the feelings and perceptions people might bring with them into a space and what the Church can learn from this.

Through our research, we’ve discovered key trends regarding what draws people closer to feelings of transcendence and connection to the divine.

Our goal for this report, and the entire series, is to help leaders find value in the physical spaces they utilize and make space count spiritually, no matter the ministry goal or budget.

We invite you to join us in exploring how places of worship, including your church, might be used to inspire, connect and disciple.

Volume 2: Making Space for Community

In this second volume, we explore the beliefs, desires and expectations people have about the church building and its purpose. You’ll also find insights and ideas from pastors, Bible scholars, professors, architects and more with valuable expertise related to church design for ministry impact.

What’s important to create physical space that supports meaningful communion with God and others? Our research shows it may require a new approach to how church buildings are used to foster community—and not just for members.

The early Church is an example of how God calls believers to “join together constantly” and “enjoy favor with all the people” (Acts 2:47). How might church design support this purpose?

Making Space for Community shines light on this and the importance of the embodied church for connection and service.

Welcome to the Making Space podcast!

This podcast comes out of a decade’s long partnership between the Aspen Group and Barna. In this project, we’re focusing on the impact that physical spaces have on the way people are formed and shaped as they experience Jesus, engage with the church and interact with others in community. Co-hosted by Benjamin Windle and Jay Kim.

Listen to the Podcast

What do I get when I join Barna Access Plus?

• The Making Space Series journals
• 8 Leadership Channels – Digital Church, Leadership, Preaching, Trends, Thriving Churches, Race & the Church and Schools & Education
• Every Barna research report
• David Kinnaman’s presentation slides
• On-demand video courses
• Live workshops with expert practitioners
• Downloadable infographics and sermon slides
• Team teaching and training videos
• Customizable assessment tools
• …and much more!