CULTURE SHIFT

These are difficult times for churches. Less than half the population in theUnited States and Canada are now members of any church, and the percentageof people who call themselves Christian or even believe in God is rapidlydeclining. And yet, churches still have the potential to grow into vibrant,life-giving communities that engage the culture, attract new members, dogood works and share the good news of God s amazing love in Jesus. CULTURE SHIFT surveys the history of a changing culture to explain theconditions which the Church confronts and the challenges it must address. It details three major culture shifts that are impacting the church and thenoffers a framework for an effective missional response. The heart of the book consists of seven workshops that will be especiallyhelpful to vestries, parish councils, evangelism and church growth committees,or even in a parish forum. Any of the workshops may be used withoutcopyright permission. These workshops include: Ministry in an Emerging World Building a Missionally-Effective Church Change and Paradigms Marketing the Church Worship Planning Building a Better Stewardship Campaign Diagnostic Tools for Strategic Ministry PlanningWith his extensive experience in ministering to urban, suburban and ruralchurches, large and small, Gary Nicolosi is convinced any church can grow ifthe leadership and members desire to grow and are willing to pay the price.