ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the potential of a spatial approach to Christianity. There is a growing discourse around a spatial turn in social and cultural theory now being applied to religion. Ideas of space contribute to numerous discussions, including identity, multi-culturalism, globalization, commodification and consumption, the nature of modernism, and the relationship between Christianity and secularity. Spatial approaches offer new perspectives on the relationship between Christianity and other religions, as well as non-religion, and the physical, social, and cultural arenas in which it is situated. Here, the work of Kim Knott stands out for her identification of important trends in spatial theory and for her novel attempt at constructing a spatial methodology to examine religion. Nevertheless, after introducing Knott's method and her reliance on Henri Lefebvre, it is argued that her model lacks a means to discuss Christianity in its actual and complex relationship within the Global North. However, the spatial approach in the work of Michel de Certeau does allow for a critique of normative and institutional ideas of Christianity and highlights the visibility of Christianity as a practice of everyday life.
