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Carey Nieuwhof

7 disruptive church trends that will rule 2026


Hi Reader,

2025 was the first year we began to see the stirrings and anecdotes associated with revival become statistically meaningful.

  • Bible sales up 41.6% since 2022.
  • Christian music streams are up 50% since 2019.
  • Spiritual app downloads rose 79.5% since 2019.

BUT... it isn't all good news as we start off 2026.

If you miss the cultural shifts happening, your day-to-day efforts in ministry often miss the mark, no matter how well-intentioned you are.

That's why I release my annual Church Trends Report—to help you and your team see what’s ahead, understand why it matters, and lead with clarity amid massive change.

So, what's shaping ministry in 2026?

7 Disruptive Church Trends That Will Rule 2026

Gen Z is filling pews again. Evangelism is evolving. Preaching is shifting.

These 7 trends reveal what’s changing—and why you need to lead differently in 2026.

2026 Church Trends Leader Guide

Download your FREE Church Trends Leader Guide to equip your team for what’s next—available in the 2026 Church Trends Hub. Sign in to download it now!

Church Trends Sponsors

Aspen Group. When it comes to your space, the key is remembering what church is really about: encountering God and engaging in authentic community. Aspen Group helps churches design spaces that do both—while also meeting practical needs and staying resilient for the future. That way, you’re better equipped to move faster and go farther on the mission God’s called you to.

To see what’s possible for your space, visit aspengroup.com/carey


Igniter Media. Whether you're a big church with a design staff or a small church with not much budget, Igniter's got you covered. Igniter is offering you an exclusive discount on any of their memberships and a FREE exclusive sermon series package valued at $330, which includes a complimentary sermon bumper, title graphics, worship backgrounds, social graphics, Canva templates, and a ProPresenter theme.

Check it out at IgniterMedia.com/carey.

Cheering for you,

P.S. Wondering what's shaping culture and ministry this year? Here are the 7 Disruptive Church Trends That Will Rule 2026.

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Carey Nieuwhof Communications, PO Box 160, Oro Medonte, Ontario L0L 2X0

Carey Nieuwhof

Don’t settle for an impact smaller than you’re called to make. It's time to unlock your potential and lead confidently into a future filled with growth — for yourself, your church, and your mission. Get access to some of my best leadership content, only published in my newsletters.

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