Congregations

What draws some young adults to Catholicism?

A 2026 survey points to the appeal of tradition and ritual and a search for something solid as the reasons for recent conversions to Catholicism.

By Shari Finnell Journalist

Image link to article: What draws some young adults to Catholicism?

Why public health should be part of theological education

Pastors don’t have to become epidemiologists or public health educators. But they do need training in how to handle health issues in ministry, whether it’s dealing with a pandemic or supporting a grieving congregant, writes a science researcher and UMC candidate for ordination.

By Alejandra Salemi Doctoral student, population health sciences

Image link to article: Why public health should be part of theological education

The gift and practice of reading together

Reading together as a congregation helps us remember what we believe, a pastor writes.

By April Yamasaki Author and minister

Image link to article: The gift and practice of reading together

New study documents affordable housing across the country built on faith land

The online, searchable survey of almost 10,000 units of housing shows trends and patterns as congregations and denominations seek to use their properties to serve their communities.

By Nadia A. Mian Senior program director, Ralph W. Voorhees Center for Civic Engagement

Image link to article: New study documents affordable housing across the country built on faith land

‘Damned If She Does: Why Women Quit Church and What It Means for the Future of Religion’

Women leaving churches is a sign of American churches’ decline, an author and reporter writes in this excerpt from her new book.

By Sarah Stankorb Journalist and author

Image link to article: ‘Damned If She Does: Why Women Quit Church and What It Means for the Future of Religion’

Healing the land and building community

A North Carolina nonprofit is partnering with a local congregation to grow a holistic development model, creating affordable housing while restoring the land and nurturing relationships.

By Stephanie Hunt Journalist

Image link to article: Healing the land and building community

The future of the church is radical empowerment of the laity

A pastor and scholar asks if our current survival strategies are based on a flawed premise.

By K. Kale Yu Minister, United Methodist Church

Image link to article: The future of the church is radical empowerment of the laity

What happens when neighbors object to your congregation’s building plans?

Conflict is common when churches desire to redevelop underused property. But there are ways to avoid and mitigate neighborhood opposition.

By Yonat Shimron Journalist

Image link to article: What happens when neighbors object to your congregation’s building plans?

Megachurches emerged from the pandemic stronger than many expected

Report reveals nearly 7 in 10 megachurches increased attendance between 2019 and 2025, while researchers also found gains in measures of spiritual vitality.

By Shari Finnell Journalist

Image link to article: Megachurches emerged from the pandemic stronger than many expected

How pastors can respond to vaccine hesitancy

A retired pediatrician and priest offers perspective on the rising incidence of vaccine hesitancy and how church leaders can serve the common good by supporting science-based public health.

By Vincent Joseph Kopp Retired pediatrician and priest

Image link to article: How pastors can respond to vaccine hesitancy

Grace Duddy Pomroy: How congregations can create more sustainable financial models

In her book “Funding Forward,” a financial educator at Luther Seminary argues that the most successful congregations engage spiritual practices like discernment before focusing on money.