Unexplainable and Spiritually Open: The Mission Trends of 2026

The Evangelical Alliance has predicted that openness to God, spiritual mysteries, and a hunger for the Bible will lead the way in 2026, following a turnaround in church attendance in 2025.

**Increasing Openness to God**

"Look out for the spiritually open in 2026," said Phil Knox, the organization's missiology senior specialist. "Belief is back." However, he noted that spiritual transcendence does not necessarily equate to more church attendance. "The rising tide will cause seekers to turn not only to all forms of Christianity but to other religions, paganism and the occult," he warned.

The church can "join the dots" between practical service, such as foodbanks, and faith sharing. "Almost every UK foodbank is connected to a church," Knox said. "74% of parents with children under five attended a church activity in the past 12 months. Churches that connect ministries and faith will grow rapidly."

**Surge in Bible Engagement**

Bible sales increased in 2025, with younger generations drawn to "good news that is true, profound and beautiful" in a "post-truth" age. New Christians often cite Scripture as key in their conversion journey.

**Unexplainable Spiritual Encounters**

Anecdotal evidence of a "Quiet Revival" includes teenagers having dreams of Jesus. The Evangelical Alliance reported that 28% of new Christians cited spiritual experiences as their prompting. "Expect people to ask: 'What was that?!'" Knox advises churches to prepare for such questions and be ready to welcome seekers who arrive with profound spiritual experiences they cannot explain.

These mission trends point to a significant opportunity for churches willing to engage authentically with a generation hungry for genuine spiritual truth and community.