[B Knotts]

Six of the top 25 churches reported membership losses: the PC (USA), the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the United Methodist Church, the Lutheran Church (Missouri Synod), the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, and the United Church of Christ.

Interesting. I'd say that these all tend to be fairly liberal communities (at least in the leadership), save one. I wonder why LCMS is shrinking.

Who was it that said something like "who needs a Church that simply embraces his own sinful behavior?" I wish I could remember the exact wording; it was a brilliant observation.

[redgolum]

There is a big fight brewing between two factions in the LCMS. One focuses on the sole leadership of ordained pastors, the other on more of a lay ministry focus. I doubt the two sides will remain together very long, as the Yankee Stadium issue with Pastor Beneke illustrates.

Also, remember the LCMS was founded as an American Lutheran church for those of German descent, mainly in rural areas. As the population demographics change, so has the church memberships. There is a LOT of growth in some congregations, my own is looking at planting another church her in Lincoln because we can't hold enough services to get every one.

[dangus]

>>I wonder why LCMS is shrinking. <<

It's too cold to make babies in Minnesota.

[cpprfld]

Interesting. I'd say that these all tend to be fairly liberal communities (at least in the leadership), save one. I wonder why LCMS is shrinking.

I think the reason you see the LCMS shrinking, is that they rely to much on their schools for evangelism. Secondly, I belong to LCMS church and I am happy with the doctrine, but I am usually the youngest person at a church service, with the exception of the kids who are there with their parents. So, the point that I am making is that the LCMS is doing a poor job outreaching to younger members.