Ethnic diversity and young churchgoers as key factors for Australian Churches

The purpose of this special section of Research in the Social Scientific Study of Religion is to provide a forum for examples of current scientific research on two key demographic factors that will shape the Australian church landscape into the future. The first is the increasing ethnic and cultural diversity, both within Australian society as well as in local churches. The second is how the church navigates its ageing profile, with a focus on the spirituality and wellbeing of children aged 8 to 14 years. This collection, comprising nine quantitative studies, draws from the extensive datasets of the five-yearly Australian National Church Life Surveys. Researchers from the NCLS Research team have collaborated with colleagues in Australia, UK and the USA to advance scientific knowledge and to improve understanding for practice in the Church.