In this episode, Dr. Scott Thumma discusses the evolution of congregational life and denominational shifts, drawing from 30 years of research. He reflects on his personal faith journey and the rise of megachurches, noting their advantages and the challenges smaller congregations face. The conversation also explores the growth of non-denominational churches and the decreasing importance of denominational identity. Dr. Thumma emphasizes the necessity for congregations to adapt to societal changes and technology, especially highlighted by the pandemic's impact on religious practices. The episode concludes with insights into the Hartford Institute for Religion Research's work on contemporary religious trends.
Scott L. Thumma is Professor of Sociology of Religion and director of the Hartford Institute for Religion Research at Hartford International University, Hartford, Connecticut. He has published numerous articles, research reports, and chapters on religious life in addition to co-authoring three books, The Other 80 Percent, Beyond Megachurch Myths, and Gay Religion.
He has researched and written on megachurches, evangelicalism, gay religious life, congregational studies, the rise of nondenominational churches, and the changing religious landscape. Scott is the Principal Investigator for 5-year Lilly Endowment grant to study the impact of the pandemic on churches.
He co-leads the Faith Communities Today national research project and has conducted national studies of megachurches and nondenominational churches. He is also a member of the team that recently conducted the 2020 US Religion Census of US congregations.
Scott will also be a guest at Remind & Renew, a conference hosted by Phillips Seminary January 24-26, along with Dr. Irie Lynne Session and musical guest Carrie Newcomer.
Presenting Sponsor:
Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world.
Supporting Sponsors:
I Help Pastors Get Jobs: Use code 'futurechristian'
Torn Curtain Arts is a non-profit ministry that works with worship leaders, creatives, and churches to help avoid burnout, love their work, and realize their full creative potential.
Eric Hoke on why the Future of the Church is Bivocational and Co-Vocational Leaders
Juan Sarmiento on The Importance of Institutions in an Anti-Institutional Era
Everything you think you know about discipleship is wrong, with Jessie Cruickshank
David Anderson Hooker on the power of narrative in shaping your church’s future
Matt Syrdal talks about Re-Wilding Christianity and Pursuing Passion Projects in the Church
Andrew Root on the Dangers of Self-Expression and Innovation Obsession in the church.
Navigating the Changing Landscape of Church with Todd Ferguson and Josh Packard
Life on the Road with Mark Dorn
Jack Shitama gives a Family Systems Perspective on the UMC split
Rohadi Nagassar on how your church can Thrive
Dawn Weaks on Breaking through to big change in your church
The Pressure to Perform as a Pastor - with Paul Romig-Leavitt and Brian Davis
Kimmothy Cole on creating Liturgy for all Bodies
How to get your church Unstuck, with Sean Bublitz
Aurelia Davila Pratt on being Spacemakers
Spencer LaJoye shares why music isn’t the main point in church
Dennis Sanders walks through the process of selling a building
Starting a progressive, mainline church with Jonah P. Overton
Michael Chan on Faithfulness in a Time of Collapse
Why Gather? with Martha Tatarnic
Join Podbean Ads Marketplace and connect with engaged listeners.
Advertise Today
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
The Hello Heaven Podcast
Cast The Word
Let Me Be Frank | Bishop Frank Caggiano’s Podcast | Diocese of Bridgeport, CT
The Kingdom Power Fellowship Podcast
The Bible Recap
The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)