Events & News
Passion Regional Events: 2008
April 11-12 in AtlantaNow
Passion is coming to you! Go to http://www.268generation.com/regionals07/ to see information about the conference you wish to attend.
Desperation Student Conferences 2008 "Counting on God"
June 26-28 in Michigan
July 17-19 in Colorado
July 31-August 2 in Alabama
For more information go to http:www.desperationonline.com
NEWS/TRENDS
Christian Prayers Allowed at Indiana and Ohio State Capitals:
The 7th Circuit Court of Appeals overturned a ruling which banned praying in Jesus’ name on the Indiana House floor. The court ruled that offended bystanders have no right to sue, since no taxpayer dollars were spent promoting the prayer. In Ohio, Republican House Speaker Jon Husted reversed his temporary ban on praying in Jesus’ name, overruling Minority Leader Chris redfern, who had walked out in protest when a pastor prayed in Jesus’ name. As this battle continues in other states, pray that religious liberty will prevail.
Unchristian:
A new study by the Barna group confirms what many have felt to be true - many young adults today are more skeptical and resistant to christianity than they were 10 years ago. The research concludes that Americans ages 16-29 are becoming increasingly disillusioned with Christianity. In fact, only 16% said they have a “favorable impression” of Christianity. Only 3% have a favorable view toward “evangelicals.” Only 55% said Christianity is a faith they respect. The most common perception about Christianity is that it is “anti-homosexual,” a belief held by 91% of respondents. (Barna.org September 24, 2007)
Increasing Enrollment:
According to Education Department projections, college enrollment is expected to increase by 17% between 2005 and 2016, bringing the total number of students to about 20 million by that time. Women and minorities will fuel the growth in attendance. While white student enrollment will grow by 8%, black students will grow by 29%; Latinos by 45%, Asian students by 32% and American Indian Students by 34%. Women will outpace men with an increase of 22% compared to 10% (Inside Higher Education December 19, 2007)
Spiritual Marketplace:
John Schmalzbauer, co-investigator of the National Study of Campus Ministries reports that campus ministry is doing well these days. Evangelical groups have increased their presence through both church based and parachurch organizations. In addition, Catholic, Jewish, and mainline Protestant groups have all seen a reverse in their downward trends and are growing through “innovative programs” and “congregational approaches.” (Touchstone, November 2007 p. 42)
