Ekklesia is an independent, not-for-profit think-tank which examines the role of religion in public life and advocates transformative theological ideas and solutions. [See also our detailed FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions [1]) and our values [2]]

A widely-referenced source of authoritative comment, policy ideas and news briefing on a range of contemporary issues related to religion and politics, Ekklesia has been listed among the UK's top 20 think tanks by The Independent newspaper. It has been profiled by the BBC [3], in London's Evening Standard and Daily Telegraph [4], and has been described [5] by The Times as 'influential'. Ekklesia now has one of the most widely read current affairs religious websites in Britain according to Alexa/Amazon rankings [6].

The web is the hub of what we do [7]. Ekklesia engages in original and cooperative research and analysis, provides a syndicated daily international and domestic news briefing service and e-bulletin [7]; offers a weekly 'upcoming events' service to journalists and policy makers; distributes a weekly 'Thinking for a Change' e-journal; produces publications and papers [7] on key policy questions; contributes distinctive opinion to print, broadcast and web media [7]; sponsors conferences and events, and provides consultancy and workshops combining practical and theoretical knowledge. See our full list of services [8]. Ekklesia also provides an online bookshop [9] (in association with Metanoia) and other resources. It helped to initiate the Westminster Forum, raises some £250,000 a year for social justice causes, and runs a unique peacemaking ISP [10].

Ekklesia is self-supporting and receives no large-scale or corporate funding. It is structured [11] on a co-operative basis through a range of voluntary associates [11] and partners [11]. Its briefing services are linked to a large number of churches and NGOs in Britain and worldwide. A full statement of values can be found here [11].

Ekklesia is a company limited by guarantee. It has several freelance staff [12]and many voluntary associates [13], consultants and contributors. In addition to organisational partners [14] it encourages individual supporters [15].

Ekklesia emerged in 2002 from Workshop [16], a long-standing independent theological training programme sponsored by the Anvil Trust. Its partners in the Root and Branch Network [17] include the Anabaptist Network UK, the London Mennonite Centre, and Christian Peacemaker Teams UK [18].

Ekklesia promotes post-Christendom [19] approaches to social policy, nonviolence and conflict transformation, environmental action, the politics of forgiveness, economic sharing, support for migrants and displaced people, freedom of expression, restorative justice, a positive (relational) approach to sexuality, non-compulsion in religion and belief, the engagement of theology with science and culture, respectful engagement with those of other faith and non-religious convictions, and church as alternative community.

See also: Learning to think without tanks [20].