If you’re the pastor or leader of a mainline Protestant congregation you have heard about your declining congregation for years if not decades. You probably even lead a congregation that wonders if its best days are behind them.

Denominations, specialists and others have some idea on how to help your congregation get back on the path towards growth. We want to try anything that can solve this crisis of decline.

But what if the crisis is not about decline but about something deeper? What if it is a crisis not of decline, but of faith in the God who is God?

Today, I talk with Dr. Andrew Root, the Carrie Olson Baalson Professor of Youth and Family Ministry at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, MN about churches in decline, the loss of life, and how revival can only come when we are open to the presence of God.

Show notes:

Andrew Root’s website

Church and the Crisis of Decline (the book we discussed)

The Church After Innovation (his latest book)

When Church Stops Working (upcoming book)

When Church Stops Working Podcast

Episode 112 with Kara Root on Sabbath

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Conversation with Jeff Henne, candidate for ASHE President