Fresh Expressions, a global movement sparking innovative forms of church, is excited to announce Shannon Kiser as its new North American Director, effective January 1, 2025. This leadership transition comes as Dr. Chris Backert, founding leader of the North American movement, shifts his focus within BGAV to the rapidly developing Ascent Movement.  

With a strong background in coaching and leadership, Shannon is ready to guide Fresh Expressions into new territory. Chris will continue to offer support through his role as Associate Executive Director, offering valuable insights into a movement that has already sparked thousands of new church expressions.

“Shannon has proven herself as an effective local practitioner, an excellent communicator, an impactful coach, and a highly trustable leader in all regards,” Chris reflected. “Her presence on our North American team has been a core reason for the growth of the movement over much of the last decade. I’m excited for her to step into this role and to continue to support her and the team in the days ahead.”

What began as a bold experiment in 2004—to breathe new life into faith communities—has flourished into a global movement. From its roots in England, to the foundational work of BGAV, to its growing presence across North American denominations, Fresh Expressions has consistently reimagined what church can be for people who may never set foot in a traditional service.

“There is a tremendous amount of creativity and courage in the North American Church today,” Shannon explained. “I’m familiar with the stark statistics regarding the decline of church affiliation in the culture. Yet, if you look more closely, there are some beautiful new forms of Christian community bubbling up on the edges. The church I serve runs a seven-day-a-week coffee shop that has become a community hub, and the God stuff that is happening every day in the natural rhythms of life are both inspiring and humbling. I believe every church has unique opportunities to foster new forms of Christian community, and Fresh Expressions is committed to calling forth this spirit of mission.”  

Since its US launch in 2010, Fresh Expressions has expanded rapidly across the continent by empowering established churches to explore fresh, authentic ways of building Christian community with new people, in the everyday spaces where life happens. BGAV churches have discounted access to numerous training, coaching, and leadership initiatives offered by Fresh Expressions.  In 2025, Fresh Expressions will be launching the “Food to Faith” initiative to assist BGAV churches in utilizing food-related ministry to create new forms of Christian community.  

For more information about Fresh Expressions North America, go to www.freshexpressions.com.  For more information about the Ascent Movement, go to Ascent’s newly launched website at www.ascentmovement.org

‍