As the Episcopal Church continues to shed members, a related issue arises. Specifically, when is it time to cut one’s losses versus staying and trying to improve things? That question extends to individual programs, ministries, parishes, and the larger church. There’s no easy answer. But we asked dozens of readers
Continue readingTag: Church decline
DioVT change management initiative appears promising
It is unfortunately all too rare that we have something positive to report in the Episcopal Church. But we are pleasantly surprised at the information and decisions coming from the Episcopal Diocese of Vermont’s THRIVE program. Our hope is that the initiative might serve as a example to other dioceses,
Continue readingOnline services will be suicide for many Episcopal churches
One of the moves many churches, in all denominations, have made in response to the pandemic is the move to virtual services, either streamed live or pre-recorded. But there is reason to be wary, for some, myself included, believe that streaming services will, in the not-distant future, prove fatal for
Continue readingNine signs your church is dying
At a time when much of organized Christianity is in decline, many are fearful and anxious about the future. But what does this mean for your parish? How can you tell that your church is in danger? In recent years, I’ve spent a lot of time studying churches, what makes
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