Towards the Measurement of Flourishing in Religious Communities

Abstract

In this essay we describe ways that empirical measurement, when theologically informed, can deepen the pursuit of truth and flourishing in religious communities, particularly Christian congregations. By drawing on recent epidemiological and social-scientific work linking religion, spirituality, and human flourishing, we commend careful, tradition-sensitive use of surveys and quantitative tools while acknowledging the limits of measuring sacred realities. We then undertake brief theological reflection on a number of empirical tools, including the nature of data, the sacred potential of technical labor, and potential for both vice and virtue in empirical activities. We close by suggesting five ways empirical data can potentially serve the church: witness, preaching, accountability, discipleship, and financial stewardship. Properly ordered, empirical methods can be a resource for congregations to better understand and nurture flourishing while remaining primarily oriented toward worship, wisdom, and the love of God and neighbor.