Ethnographic Research

In this topic we will be exposed, in theory and practice, to the very basic of two sociological tools, namely, demographic research and ethnographic research.

Why is this topic important:

In our postmodern cities where diversity has become a fundamental aspect of our society, rather than homogeneity of the past, our existing churches and our church planting initiatives need to be able to understand better their areas and their target groups, through existing researches and developing new ones.

What we are going to do:

In this topic we will be exposed, in theory and practice, to the very basic of two sociological tools, namely, demographic research and ethnographic research. We will examine together different ways of finding and making use of the above tools and we will practice some of their exercises in real time by visiting a church planting area (i.e. an interview with a key person, making observations from a standpoint).

The Goal:

By the end of this course the participants will be strongly encouraged towards the need of developing a unique Philosophy of Ministry for their local church, rather than having a generic philosophy of how we do church. The participants will be encouraged in answering to the basic question: why this specific church, within this specific time, in this specific area? How is this church different from any other church in the city, corresponding to the specific target group or area?

Your Host:

Alexandros Pipilios

Alexandros (Alex) Pipilios was born and raised in Athens. He served as an intern in the First Evangelical Church during his primary theological studies at the Bible College (Pikermi, Attiki).

He completed a MAR in Biblical Studies at Westminster Theological Seminary, PA. In 2011 he returned to Greece and together with Tim Coomar planted the church in Exarcheia.

He is married to Iliana Volioti and they have two daughters Alkisti and Lois.