About
The Heart of Agora Uncovered!
At Agora Faith Community, we are reaching out to those who, for one reason or another, don’t feel comfortable in a traditional church. Our mission is to meet them exactly where they are. We recognise that for a growing number of people, traditional church structures have become a barrier rather than a bridge. We often say that faith is better shared over a flat white or a meal. For some, that might sound like a simple lifestyle choice, but for those we are trying to reach, it is something much deeper. For those who have felt pushed away, bored, or simply "done" with traditional structures, this isn't a theological judgment — it’s a sigh of relief. It’s an invitation to a relaxed environment where you can finally exhale; just like in the early church in Acts 2, we promote biblical discussion rather than preaching.
Radical Honesty as an Olive Branch
When we say "traditional church isn’t for everyone," we aren't criticising tradition or making a theological judgment. Instead, we are offering a gesture of radical honesty. For someone who feels guilty for not fitting the "Sunday morning mould," seeing that reality acknowledged feels like a true recognition of their life. While those inside the church might occasionally see such phrasing as competitive, those outside see it as a genuine recognition of their lived experience. We’re not trying to compete with the beauty of a traditional service; we’re simply trying to "become all things" to those for whom the pews have become a barrier.
Living Paul’s Example!
Our foundation is based on the Apostle Paul’s approach to different contexts. In 1 Corinthians 9:20–22 (ESV), he writes:
"To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews... To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might win some."
Paul adjusted his tone and "branding" to ensure the Gospel wasn't hindered by cultural barriers. Following his lead, Agora concentrates on those slipping through the cracks. We value the traditional church and also the early church model of Acts 2, but our specific mission is to speak the language of the "outsider."
A Different Expression, The Same Heart
There is a deep beauty in the diversity of the Body of Christ. The traditional church holds a vital place, and at the same time, there is a strong precedent for how Agora meets—similar to the early church in Acts 2, where believers gathered in homes and public spaces, breaking bread and sharing life with joyful and sincere hearts.
Agora is built for the "outsider." Our aim is to be a community where conversations replace preaching. You don’t need to have your life "sorted" to join in, and relationships are the main way for spiritual growth.
Whether you're sceptical, tired, or just looking for a community that feels like home, there's a seat at the table for you.
Introducing The Hungry Disciple
Have you ever felt like life was spiralling out of control, leaving you questioning everything you believed? I have. My name is Geoff Harrison, and my journey as "The Hungry Disciple" is a story of wrestling with faith, finding strength in community, and witnessing God's incredible grace in the midst of life's storms. From the loss of my first wife to cancer, to the unexpected love that blossomed on the very day I returned home after 10 years away, my life has been a series of profound lessons. Now, as a School Chaplain and Pastor, I'm passionate about sharing those lessons with you. Join me at Agora Faith Community as we delve into the heart of faith, seeking inspiration and encouragement on our shared journey with Christ. Discover the surprising ways God works in our lives, and become a "Hungry Disciple" with me.
My name is Geoff Harrison, and I am “The Hungry Disciple”