Exodus : why Americans are fleeing liberal churches for conservative Christianity

Why, in this age of moral relativism, are millions of people eager to adopt tougher and more traditional religious practices? Why are they fleeing denominations that focus on social justice rather than dogma, such as the Unitarians and Episcopalians? Why are they joining conservative churches like the Southern Baptists in record numbers?Many articles have been written about the decline of mainstream Protestantism— especially since the Episcopal Church confirmed an openly gay bishop, sparking a fierce debate among its own members. But no author has gone behind the scenes to interview the Americans, liberal and conservative, who are at the heart of this important shift.Journalist Dave Shiflett reveals why liberal pastors have cast aside tradition and Christian belief as they remake their churches. He shows why there are so many refugees from the mainline denominations into Roman Catholic, evangelical, and Orthodox churches.Exodusundermines several stereotypes about conservative believers, who are better educated, wealthier, and more worldly than we assume. Many of those who flock to conservative churches don’t agree with all of their new churches’ teachings on issues like abortion and divorce. They don’t all believe that every word of the Bible is true. Yet they’re tired of being told that nearly anything goes. They hunger for the traditional Christian message of hope.This is a fascinating book that will shatter many myths about the “religious right.”… (more)