What is the Biggest Church in Canberra?

Biggest Church in Canberra: A Humorous Take (and a Deeper Truth)

You've searched for the "Biggest Church in Canberra", hoping to find the largest building, the loudest sound system, or the biggest Sunday congregation. Well, here’s the tongue-in-cheek truth: there’s only one Church in Canberra.

THIS IS CERTAINLY NOT DIVERGENT CHURCH ;)

Indeed, there’s only one Church here, expressed in many forms. Whether through modern auditoriums hosting large gatherings or ancient sandstone cathedrals, churches hold services in multiple languages, and small groups meet in suburban homes. The biggest congregation in Canberra is more than just a physical structure—it’s made up of Christ's diverse followers across the city.

But let’s be honest: true greatness in God’s kingdom comes from being big in ways far more meaningful than numbers or square metres. Here are eight ways a church can be “big” regardless of its size.

THIS IS DIVERGENT CHURCH CANBERRA // ATLEAST THE BACK OF SOME HEADS AND SOME ON STAGE

Big in Love

Jesus said it plainly:

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34, NIV).

“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8, NIV).

The biggest church in Canberra will be known not by its crowd, but by its love—for the broken, the outsider, offering healing and forgiveness.

Big on the Word

We don’t need entertaining sermons—we need a church grounded in Scripture.

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16, NIV).

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path” (Psalm 119:105, NIV).

A church that prioritises God’s Word will grow deep, not just wide. If you’re looking for the biggest congregation in Canberra, look for one that elevates Scripture.

Big in the Spirit

Without the Holy Spirit’s power, a church is just an organisation. But a Spirit-filled church? That’s unstoppable.

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses...” (Acts 1:8, NIV).

“Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit” (Galatians 5:25, NIV).

The biggest church in Canberra is likely the one that depends daily on the Spirit’s power, not its own strength.

Big in Generosity

True generosity is faithful and joyful—not showy.

“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion...” (2 Corinthians 9:7, NIV).

“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25, NIV).

A generous church blesses the city, feeds the poor, supports missions. That’s the kind of “big” Canberra needs.

Big on Hospitality

Hospitality isn’t about perfect meals; it’s about open doors and open hearts.

“Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling” (1 Peter 4:9, NIV).

“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it” (Hebrews 13:2, NIV).

The biggest church in Canberra could be the most welcoming one—where everyone feels seen.

Big in Discipleship

Church attendance isn’t the goal—helping people grow as disciples is.

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations...” (Matthew 28:19, NIV).

“And the things you have heard me say... entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others” (2 Timothy 2:2, NIV).

A big church measures success by multiplying disciples, not just filling seats.

Big in Prayer

Revival, renewal, and mission flow from prayer.

“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful” (Colossians 4:2, NIV).

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” (James 5:16, NIV).

The biggest church in Canberra might be known by the number at its prayer meetings, not its Sunday crowd.

Big in Mission

The Church exists to make Jesus known.

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10, NIV).

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:14, NIV).

The biggest church in Canberra shines brightest by reaching beyond its walls to bring Christ’s light to the city.

So… Where’s the Biggest Church in Canberra?

The biggest church in Canberra isn’t necessarily measured by pews or parking spaces, but by its impact. Maybe true size is found in the things that matter—being big in love, Scripture, Spirit, generosity, hospitality, discipleship, prayer, and mission.

At Divergent Church, we certainly don't have the largest crowds, although we meet in different locations most weeks and come together for ONE every six weeks.

We are not even sure who does have the biggest Church crowd in Canberra but our belief is that God makes both mice and elephants. The small, much smaller than ourselves and the large, larger than ourselves all have a place in God's kingdom.