By Aaron Earls For most pastors, the so-called “worship wars” over the style of the music used in their church have subsided, if they ever even felt that pressure. A new study from Nashville-based Lifeway Research found 15% of Protestant pastors in the U.S. say the biggest challenge they face in the area of music is navigating the varying preferences of members. A … [Read more...]
New book explores relationship between worship ministry and church strategy
By Joy Allmond NASHVILLE, Tenn.—When Mike Harland joined Lifeway Christian Resources President and CEO Thom S. Rainer a couple of years ago on the “Rainer on Leadership” podcast, he never imagined those conversations about music ministry would lead to writing a book. On Nov. 1, B&H Publishing released the fruit of those discussions, Worship Essentials: Growing a … [Read more...]
Churchgoers stick around for theology, not music or preachers
By Bob Smietana Most churchgoers will put up with a change in music style or a different preacher. But don’t mess with a church’s beliefs or there may be an exodus, according to a new study from Nashville-based Lifeway Research. The study of Protestant churchgoers found most are committed to staying at their church over the long haul. But more than half say they would … [Read more...]
Americans sure of religious freedom but unsure Muslims are welcome
By Lisa Cannon Green NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Americans believe firmly in religious freedom but think atheists are more welcome than Muslims in the United States, Nashville-based Lifeway Research finds. More than 90 percent say people should be free to choose and practice religious beliefs. Nearly 7 in 10 call America a nation of many religions. Yet Americans acknowledge the … [Read more...]
