Chasing Down a Rumor: The Death of Mainline Denominations

Bacher and Inskeep believe that mainline denominationsserve as caretakers of the important Americanexpressions of Christianity, and if they are weak or lost,society and the universal church will be the worse for it. Theyargue that a fundamentally American form of mainlinedenominationalism can and will endure, despite the rumor ofits decline.

The authors examine six rumors of the decline. Usinghistorical trends and current statistical information, theyanalyze the current situation and point to vitallessons, potential problems, and key challenges. They alsooffer helpful strategies and provide examples of whatdenominations are doing that show potential.