NCLS Research (National Church Life Survey)

Media Release

Tuesday June 25th, 2002

Churches co-operate to undertake major review

Six out of ten church attenders agree that their local church is always willing to try something new. This is one finding from the 2001 National Church Life Survey (NCLS), the largest survey of its kind in the world.

The NCLS is a co-operative venture of 19 denominations across Australia. Over 435 000 church attenders completed the survey. They were joined worldwide by churches in England, USA and New Zealand.

Today, Perth hosted one of a series of capital city launches of results and resources. The Most Revd Dr Peter Carnley, Archbishop of Perth and Primate of the Anglican Church in Australia, launched the Connections for Life resources. He said “the survey has gained wide acceptance as a credible and penetrating analysis of one of the nation’s most enduring and influential social institutions. “

Dr Carnley said that recent controversies involving most denominations had affected confidence in the Christian churches, but those most familiar with congregational life remained committed and strongly supportive.

“They know the extent to which their local church and its people are involved in promoting community cohesion, supporting young people and children, and in care for the disadvantaged. For the sake of this work and the committed Christian people who do it, the institutional Church must get its house in order,” he said.

During May and June, over 7000 participating churches will receive a report that profiles their local situation. Many will take the opportunity to review their life and to plan for a positive future.

The Connections for Life kit of resources will assist churches to assess how effectively they assist people in their spiritual journey, as well as the strength of their connections with each other and with the wider community. Reports will also be produced for regions and for denominations.

Commenting on the first national results, Rev Rod Bullpitt, NCLS team member, said, “The national profile of the churches shows solid foundations to build on. Most attenders report very favourably on their faith and worship experience and their sense of belonging. Thousands make a highly significant contribution to the wider community in terms of social action, care and welfare. At the same time, there is a challenge to strengthen effective connections with the wider community. Being willing to try new initiatives will be an important starting point”.

NCLS RESEARCH is a partnership between the Uniting Church Board of Mission (NSW), ANGLICARE (NSW), and the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference. For more information or to arrange an interview contact: Rev Rod Bullpitt, [Congregational Resources Coordinator] NCLS Research: Mob: 0408 732 087, Ph: (02) 8267 4394, Fax: (02) 9267 7316 , http://www.ncls.org.au

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