Not everyone comes to the banquet: Factors contributing to differential effects of the great banquet on Presbyterian congregational vitality
Abstract
Recent studies suggest that strong churches have high levels of individual member commitment. How can mainline churches, which typically expect less of their members, build member commitment? One potential resource is a non-profit group, founded in the 1990s, called the Great Banquet. During three-day events, participants are equipped and encouraged to become more committed to their churches, which can provide indirect, lasting impact on church strength. Few researchers have studied the potential of such groups to help revitalize churches. This project is a comparative case study of two Presbyterian congregations that have sent members to Great Banquet weekends. One church enjoys stable membership, attendance, and giving; the other, though similar in other characteristics, does not. Using Bolman and Deal’s four frames for studying organizations, I identify factors that affect Great Banquet’s impact on these congregations: the attitude of clergy and other church staff members toward the Great Banquet; the level of endorsement given to the Great Banquet; the political climate within the church, and the willingness of church members to change. I also propose a theoretical model for explaining the interaction of these factors.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Olson, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Religion|Organization Theory|Organizational behavior
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