American Congregations V 2 – New Perpsectives in the Study of Congregations: New Perspectives in the Study of Congregations (The Congregational History Project) - Hardcover

Wind

 
9780226901886: American Congregations V 2 – New Perpsectives in the Study of Congregations: New Perspectives in the Study of Congregations (The Congregational History Project)

Synopsis

Building upon the empirical foundation provided by the historical studies in the first volume of this project, this book brings together historians, sociologists, theologians and ethicists for an interdisciplinary conversation on the study of American congregations. The essays in this volume address three general questions: where is the congregation located on the broader map of American culture and religious life?; what defines congregations - what are their distinctive qualities, practices, tasks and roles in American culture?; and what patterns of leadership and organization characterize congregations in America? The contributors argue that the congregation is crucial to our understanding of religion in America and that congregational studies deserve a central place in research and teaching on American religion.

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About the Author

James P. Wind is president of the Alban Institute. James W. Lewis is executive director of the Louisville Institute. Together they directed the Congregational History Project which was based at the University of Chicago's Divinity School from 1987-1990.

From the Back Cover

'These essays greatly enhance our understanding of the ways in which congregations have been changing in response to their social surroundings. Against the hoopla of 'church growth' specialists, the authors of this volume present a sober analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of contemporary congregations. They demonstrate that maintaining a spiritual presence is a complicated business--and that we should not be deceived into thinking that numeric growth is the sine qua non of a successful ministry.' Robert Wuthnow, Princeton University.

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Other Popular Editions of the Same Title

9780226901893: American Congregations V 2 – New Perspectives in the Study of Congregations (Paper)

Featured Edition

ISBN 10:  0226901890 ISBN 13:  9780226901893
Publisher: University of Chicago Press, 1998
Softcover