* FINAL VERSION - Concurred

Resolution B023

Title:   Evangelism-Response to Reported Decline

Topic:   Evangelism

Committee:   Evangelism

House of Initial Action:   Deputies

Proposer:   The Rt. Rev. David C. Jones (Virginia)

Resolved, That the 75th General Convention of The Episcopal Church acknowledge the report of the Joint Commission on Domestic Mission and Evangelism which states that The Episcopal Church “may be in systemic decline” (Blue Book, Page 103); and be it further
Resolved, That The Episcopal Church respond to this reported decline by initiating through the Office of Mission and the Standing Commission on Domestic Mission and Evangelism a national consultation on methods and strategies identify best practices to reverse the decline in mainline denominations; and be it further
Resolved, That the Standing Commission on Domestic Mission and Evangelism, during the next triennium, study the decline in mainline denominations and make recommendations to the 76th General Convention on strategies to reverse this decline.


EXPLANATION

Statistical reports in the Blue Book show examples of both growth and decline in Average Sunday Attendance.  We need to learn from those congregations employing effective strategies for growth and to better understand the reasons for both growth and decline.  


* The final language, as well as the final status of each resolution, is being reviewed by the General Convention office. The Journal of the 75th General Convention and the Constitution and Canons will be published once the review process has been completed.