Changing denominational structures are merely a response to decline

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  • Created by: Kelseyb
  • Created on: 18-05-16 20:47

Changing denominational structures are merely a response to decline

Advantages

  • 'united we stand, divided we fall' mentality leading to more openness to ecumenism. Promote unity and cooperation in order to avoid a secular society.
  • Declining number of clergy forces people to worship in different ways e.g. house group movement. (57 men training for priesthood)

Disadvantages

  • Changes reflect changes in society, people no longer fulfilled by traditional services. e.g. increase in pentecostal and charismatic movement more enjoyable which leads to decrease in traditional services such as anglican.
  • However, non-denominational may just be more convenient for modern lifestyle e.g. sunday trading. does not indicate a decline in belief. Grace Davie 'believing without belonging'.
  • In past, no experience of other forms of worship now people want more of a 'pick and mix approach'.

Evaluation

It seems that some changes in denominational structure is a response to decline however it would be wrong to assume that this is 'merely' a response to this. The changes clearly reflect changes in society especially as the changes indicate people are still worshiping, doesnt seem like they would if there was a decline. 

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