Building a diverse church is hard. Here’s how to make it easier

150 Christian leaders gathered at Gateway Church in Leeds last month for a one day conference to explore how to better build intercultural churches. Rev Osoba Otaigbe, who instigated the event, shares some of the group’s findings

A few weeks ago I hosted a gathering on intercultural church in Leeds with over 150 Christian leaders. 

The terms “multicultural church” and “intercultural church” are often used synonymously, but they are different. A multicultural church may allow cultures to coexist, but an intercultural church goes a step further in promoting meaningful interaction and understanding between individuals from diverse backgrounds. 

The event in Leeds showcased how building an intercultural church is possible. We deliberately incorporated different languages in worship, for example. Our vision of an intercultural church is based on Revelation 7:9, where people from various backgrounds will one day come together to worship in harmony.