A surprising spiritual revival is taking root in one of America’s most irreligious cities. San Francisco’s tech industry, long dominated by innovation and secularism, is seeing a surge of interest in Christianity, led by prominent tech leaders. At a sold-out event called Code & Cosmos, hosted in a converted Christian Science church near Dolores Park, Y Combinator CEO Garry Tan joined a diverse crowd exploring the intersection of faith and work.
The event featured DJ-led worship remixes, Burmese cuisine, and talks by luminaries like Francis Collins, former NIH director, who discussed his journey from atheism to Christianity. Organized by the Acts 17 Collective, founded by Michelle Stephens, the gathering aimed to foster dialogue about faith within the tech world.
Churches Adapt to Tech’s Spiritual Curiosity
Epic Church, a growing congregation launched in 2011, is thriving by addressing the unique needs of San Francisco’s tech community. Its inclusive message appeals to spiritual skeptics, balancing demanding careers and existential questions. Weekly attendance now exceeds pre-pandemic levels, with Easter services drawing over 900 people.
Epic’s unconventional approach includes viewing vocation as sacred and offering community for those unsure about God. Pastor Ben Pilgreen highlights the city’s openness to various spiritual paths, observing that tech professionals increasingly explore faith as a source of meaning.
Faith and Tech: A Natural Alignment?
Michelle Stephens asserts that tech and Christianity share values like perseverance and creating opportunities for others. Through Acts 17, she encourages leaders to consider integrating faith into their lives. Her events offer an alternative to the transient fulfillment sought through psychedelics or retreats, emphasizing deeper purpose and worship.
The movement’s growing acceptance reflects San Francisco’s cultural fabric shift. As curiosity about Christianity rises, tech-savvy leaders are bridging the gap between faith and innovation, fostering a community that is reshaping the city’s spiritual landscape.
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Christians in tech drive religious revival in SF
Image: © Pamela Reynoso
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