I have encountered two interesting articles in the
New York Times online that I'd like to share. Hopefully soon I will have more of my own thoughs to share, but until then, see the links below...
The Advantages of Closing a Few DoorsSociological research on decision making. Interesting for me as I move toward making life-changing decisions and, as a spiritual director, walk with others in their discernment.
Americans Change Faith at Rising Rate, Report FindsNew extensive report released by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life on religious life in this country (full report available
here). Of particular interest to me is the trend of declining mainline denominations and rising "unafiliated" believers.
From the NYT article:
The rise of the unaffiliated does not mean that Americans are
becoming less religious, however. Contrary to assumptions that most of
the unaffiliated are atheists or agnostics, most described their
religion “as nothing in particular.” Pew researchers said that later
projects would delve more deeply into the beliefs and practices of the
unaffiliated and would try to determine if they remain so as they age.
I look forward to more research and will do some pondering of my own. My spiritual direction sensors perk when people engage with their
faith, and I have noticed spiritual hungers flowing underneath the
radar of the establishment of the church. I suspect this new research has possible correlation to the conversations and communities arising with the "
emerging church" movement. Stay tuned...
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Megan