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by Philip Hughes (Author)
'... an indispensable book for all Church leaders.' Dr Muriel Porter OAM
Australian censuses and other surveys serve to inform us of the situation currently facing Australian Christian churches and other religious traditions. While declines in religious identity and attendance became apparent in the 1970s, the rate of decline has increased in recent years, particularly in the more progressive churches, despite being offset by immigration and by the charismatic movement - reflecting global patterns.
This book takes seriously this situation and, drawing on international scholarship, explains it in terms of changes in personal and social values, particularly in relation to sexuality, within a changing social context. Scientific views of the world, medical and technological advances, the growth of welfare systems and the economic independence of individuals have radically changed Western societies and the place of religion within them.
The author also notes how churches may respond to the reality of declining numbers, suggesting that the contemporary context offers new ways in which communities and individuals may find meaning in life, values to live for, and opportunities to make the world a better place.
Philip Hughes' deep dive into wide-ranging research shows how changes in society itself have impacted the churches, and offers some suggestions as to how the churches might re-connect with the Australian community... an indispensable book for all Church leaders. Dr Muriel Porter OAM - Melbourne writer, historian and lay Anglican
Accessible and engaging, this is the best book of its kind I have read on Australian religion. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in how faith is shaped by society and culture. Professor Andrew Singleton - Professor of Sociology and Social Research - Deakin University, Geelong
What is happening to religion in Australia? might be uncomfortable reading, but it deserves careful reading by Christian leaders trying to wrestle with the decline of Christianity in Australia. Hughes' reputation as a religious demographer underscores the urgency of the statistical analysis offered here. Rev. Associate Professor Darrell Jackson - Principal, Whitley College, University of Divinity
