Numeric decline and disconnection from local contexts represent significant and related problems for the contemporary church. These empirical realities, however, become much more threatening when they are incorporated into the church’s self-understanding. Thus, despite numeric decline, could the affirmation of a theology of abundance generate a more theologically appropriate self-understanding and a more vibrant church? Further, could such a self-understanding catalyze alternative economic practices -- practices of excess and generosity? Finally, could such practices be a means by which the church re-engages with local neighbourhood contexts in the form of community economic development (CED)? This certainly seems to be a possibility in the context of the Toronto neighbourhood of South Parkdale, where this exploration will be undertaken.

It is my hope that by re-discovering the God of abundance, and the economy of generosity embodied in Jesus of Nazareth, the church can find the resources to move beyond the melancholy sense that decline is its fate. By partnering with local stakeholders and engaging in practices of CED, the church can productively reconnect to local contexts, especially in urban centers. By cycling these discoveries through the concept of a general economy, the church and local communities can move towards more transformative practices of abundance.