Christian Participatory Housing

“All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts.” – Acts 2:44-47

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10

Since the 2000s, due to the housing crisis, growing individualism, the loneliness of aging people, environmental issues, and the loss of social ties that characterize our current society, participatory housing in France has been experiencing a revival. Participatory housing is more than shared spaces—it’s an art of living together, composed of engaged and motivated people who identify with values of solidarity, cooperation, ecology, and diversity (social, cultural, and generational). 

According to official data, between 2021 and 2024 there were 448 successful projects: 225 in rural areas and 233 in cities. This helps to redevelop rural areas, create social fabric, and offer community housing to many people on modest incomes and seniors who want a more active retirement!  

In this great movement, Christian participatory housing projects remain a minority. The movement is currently dominated by secular ecological spiritualities and New Age influences, but we believe that this presents a great opportunity to witness the love of Christ in the lives of these communities. 

Prayer points:

• Pray that Christians engage in participatory housing projects such as intergenerational initiatives and retirement homes to reach more French people for Christ.
• For wisdom and resources for Christians wanting to establish Christian Participatory Housing Projects and that they will become places of authentic witness, hospitality, and transformation. 
• For unity among believers who choose to live in community, reflecting the love of Christ to their neighbors.