Examples of Fresh Expressions
“God has built experimentation into the fabric of creation. Civilisation is the history of experiments that worked. If experimentation is a vital part of being human, should it not be part of church as well? Many fresh expressions start as experiments, and we pray that they will continue to be filled with the Spirit of creativity.”
St Mary’s is an Anglican parish located on a large housing estate in Workington, Cumbria. The estate experiences long-term social and economic …
A Fresh Expression Rooted in Rural Norfolk Tucked between Norfolk and Suffolk in the Waveney Valley, a fresh expression is quietly growing—one …
Rev7 is a Christian community in Plymouth that looks nothing like a traditional church — and that’s entirely the point. It’s a …
Where hospitality meets faith in the heart of London In the bustling heart of Soho, a different kind of Christian community is …
Oli Preston is no stranger to the tension between tradition and innovation. As the Rector of the United Benefice of Haworth and …
This post is inspired by a conversation with Fiona Barber on The Mission Shaped Podcast. Fiona is pioneering a Christian community in …
Nik Stevenson leads a vibrant community known as Digital Saints, which creatively blends online and outdoor activities for its members. Nestled in …
Asylum Fellowship is a Christian community in the heart of London’s alternative scene. Among punks, metalheads, and skeptics, Asylum creates space for …
Starting and developing a Fresh Expression is a creative process. Practitioners may have an idea of what they want to do and how, but it’s only when they take the leap of faith and try something that God begins to reveal the next steps and it’s often surprising where they lead. Most practitioners will say that the Fresh Expression they are a part of now, doesn’t look like the initial idea they started with, which is what makes Fresh Expressions so unique. Whilst one fx might be inspired by another, it will begin to form its own identity as the context and those who connect with it help shape it.
Fresh Expressions is a movement centred around storytelling and we hope some of the stories below encourage and inspire you on your own fx journey. If you have a story of your own Fresh Expression; whether it’s one you started or one you’ve joined then do get in touch as we’d love to hear your story and share it with the movement.
Latest stories are on the podcast
Darren Middleton shares how Rev7, a high-end salon in Plymouth, becomes a safe, sacred space offering love, dignity, and transformation for people …
James Shelton shares how ancient monastic rhythms and pilgrimage routes are revitalizing Christian community in rural England, offering spacious, Spirit-led discipleship beyond …
Martha Pennel shares how Sacred Grounds fosters authentic community in Soho through radical hospitality, deep listening, and a flexible, faith-rooted coffee space. …
Show notes: Ollie Preston shares his journey as a pioneer within traditional Anglican churches, exploring how ancient practices like Compline can foster …
Share your Story
We love hearing about where the Spirit is moving and what people are doing. You might not think what you’re doing fits the mould but we want to hear about all the creative, out-of-the-box, and exciting things you’re all doing so get in touch!