A Survey of United Methodist Laity and Clergy. The Connectional Table. October 23, 2006

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1 A Survey of United Methodist Laity and Clergy The Connectional Table October 23, 2006 D E T R O I T C H I C A G O G R E E N B A Y F R A N K F U R T T O K Y O B E I J I N G

2 1 Contents Background and Methodology Sample Description Findings: Core Beliefs Core Values Practices of Faithful Discipleship Issues of Importance for Church Focus Organizational Structure Pastoral Issues Serving Youth Homosexuality Future Vision Summary Conclusions

3 Background and Methodology 2

4 3 Background Descriptive survey Input for State of the Church Report Quantitative measurement Extrapolation to relevant populations Baseline for future monitoring Grassroots (laity and clergy) Beliefs, perceptions, opinions, needs Initial survey emphasis on U.S. Other countries sampled; less depth

5 4 To ensure a successful survey, attention must be paid to these four elements Methodology Sample Questionnaire Interview process Analyses

6 5 Strong respondent cooperation provides us with assurance of the validity of the sample. Two samples Telephone Internet Methodology Sample Telephone sample source Several lists obtained from UMC Screened during interview for eligibility UMC.org Web site published description of survey enhancing respondent cooperation Internet Posted on Web site Samples in Europe, Africa and the Philippines are small; focus on U.S.; indications in other countries

7 6 The questionnaire was developed through collaboration with the State of the Church Task Group. Methodology Questionnaire Collaborative process Developed using insights from qualitative research Designed for 15-minute telephone interview Longer questionnaire on Web site Questionnaires pretested for length and comprehension The importance of discrimination extremely categories on scales

8 7 Standard, professional data collection techniques were employed to ensure that the sample was valid and the data had integrity. Telephone Methodology Data Collection Process Martec s telephone bank with trained interviewers, continuously supervised Random selection; every nth name on list; 3 callbacks Referred to UMC Web site if questions of legitimacy Internet Programmed carefully to ensure eligibility of respondents and validity of responses

9 8 Data were reviewed to ensure internal consistency. Methodology Analyses Completed responses reviewed for integrity Data reviewed for internal consistency Comparisons between telephone and internet data made for consistency Data from the two sources were merged because they are consistent, providing an even more solid base for extrapolation.

10 9 We at Martec are very comfortable that the data we will present are a true reflection of the State of the Church. Methodology Overall Evaluation Respondents were cooperative and engaged. Data are internally consistent. U.S. sample sizes are large and excellent for extrapolation. Sample sizes in Europe, Africa, Philippines do not ensure generalizations with accuracy; data are indicative only. Respondents took the survey seriously; subject matter involves deeply held and important convictions, providing assurance that responses are true.

11 Sample Description 10

12 11 Approximately 2,600 interviews were completed for this research effort. Interviews were conducted via phone and Internet across multiple world regions. U.S. ~980 phone interviews 780 laity, 200 pastors ~1,500 online interviews 950 laity, 550 pastors Europe (Switzerland, Germany, Russia) 50 phone interviews 35 laity, 15 pastors Africa (Congo, Ivory Coast) 50 phone interviews 35 laity, 15 pastors Philippines 25 phone interviews 20 laity, 5 pastors

13 12 Overall, laity comprise 73% of the interview sample. The 2,600 completed interviews include approximately 1,900 lay members and 700 pastors. 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 27% 21% 20% 30% 30% 38% 73% 79% 80% 70% 70% 62% Overall US Phone US Online Europe Africa Philippines Laity Clergy

14 About half of the respondents come from churches with membership of The majority were Caucasian. About one in four were younger than age 45. Size of Congregation Ethnic Background Large ( ) 26% Very Large Caucasian (1001+) Small (<50) 87% 5% 16% 53% Medium (51-250) Hispanic Native American 1% 6% 2% 1% African American 3% Other Asian American Age Yrs. 26% 24% Yrs. 26% 15% 6% 2% 1% 65+ Yrs Yrs Yrs Yrs Yrs. 13

15 14 More than two-thirds of the respondents for this research have completed college or post-graduate work. What is the highest level of education you have completed? 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 4% 18% 44% 22% 11% 1% Laity 9% 62% 22% 6% 1% Clergy Some High School High School Some College College Grad Post Graduate Other

16 15 The majority of U.S. respondents were in the Southeastern, North Central and South Central jurisdictions. U.S. Jurisdiction 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 7% 5% 17% 26% 26% 36% 39% 24% 14% 8% Laity Clergy Northeast Southeast North Central South Central West

17 A strong plurality of both clergy and laity became United Methodists because they were born into the church. The next most common reason is they like the teachings and beliefs of The United Methodist Church. What was the primary reason you became a member of The United Methodist Church? Born into the UMC 37% 37% Like the teachings/beliefs of the UMC 15% 22% God claimed me to be part of the Church 7% 15% None of these reasons 3% 8% Relationship with current church member 6% 11% Due to profound religious experience Church's emphasis on social issues Conveniently located "Middle of the road" church Like the people Like the pastor Activities Social interaction 3% 3% 2% 2% 2% 1% 2% 1% 1% 1% 4% 4% 5% 4% Character of the worship service 2% Clergy Laity I like the music/worship style 2% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 16

18 United Methodists in the Philippines are more likely to be claimed by God to become United Methodists. What was the primary reason you became a member of The United Methodist Church? Born into the UMC Like the teachings/beliefs of the UMC God claimed me to be part of the Church Relationship with current church member 2% 4% 4% 7% 7% 10 % 12 % 14 % 16 % 28% 28% 30% 32% 38% 40% 37% Due to profound religious experience 2% 2% 4% 8% Church's emphasis on social issues 4% 12 % 14 % Conveniently located 2% "Middle of the road" church 2% 4% 10 % Like the people 2% 1% 4% Like the pastor 2% 1% Activities Social interaction Character of the worship service I like the music/worship style 2% 1% 2% 1% 2% Philippines Africa Europe US 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 17

19 18 Respondents primary reasons for becoming United Methodist can be categorized into three segments The following reasons were combined to create three distinct segments. Values driven: God claimed me to be a part of the church. I like the teachings and beliefs of The UMC. I like the church s emphasis on God s concern for the poor and other social issues. The UMC is a middle-of-the-road church. I had a profound religious experience as a youth. I value the activities such as mission trips. I enjoy the character of the worship service. Functional motivations: I was born into The UMC. the church is conveniently located. Church services are at a convenient time. I like the music and worship style of the church. Personal relationship driven: I like the people at the church. I enjoy the social interaction with other members. I like the pastor at the church. I have a close personal relationship with a current church member.

20 19 Both pastors and laity report more values driven and functional reasons for becoming United Methodists reasons. What was the primary reason you became a member of The United Methodist Church? 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 18% 46% 36% Laity 9% 41% 49% Clergy Values Functional Personal Connection

21 Core Beliefs 20

22 Most core beliefs are extremely important to the vast majority of respondents. Lay members place somewhat lower importance on mission and service work. How important is each of the following core beliefs in your Christian journey? 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 97% God, Jesus Christ & the Holy Spirit 96% 97% 95% 92% Reliance on God's grace for salvation Holy Communion should be open to all w ho believe in Christ and confess sins before God 92% 92% 87% We acknowledge our complete dependence on God 84% Scripture is the prim ary source for Christian teaching/living Percentages reflect respondents who answered extremely important. Clergy 82% 79% Laity 63% Personal salvation involves mission & service = Most Important Attributes 21

23 In the Western jurisdiction, fewer lay members on average find United Methodist core beliefs extremely important in their Christian journey. Key differences: Belief that personal salvation always involves Christian mission and service in the world Laity Average: 63% extremely important Laity Western Jurisdiction: 41% extremely important Belief that Scripture is the primary source and criterion for Christian teaching/living Laity Average: 82% extremely important Laity Western Jurisdiction: 64% extremely important Belief that we acknowledge our complete dependence on God in birth, in life, in death and in life eternal Laity Average: 87% extremely important Laity Western Jurisdiction: 70% extremely important Pastors Average: 92% extremely important Pastors Western Jurisdiction; 70% extremely important No significant differences exist by age or by segment. 22

24 Mission is seen as very important in Africa. How important is each of the following core beliefs in your Christian journey? 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 96% 92% 10 0 % 92% 96% 92% 98% 96% Belief in God, Belief in reliance Jesus Christ & on God's grace for the Holy Spirit salvation Percentages reflect respondents who answered extremely important. 92% 92% 96% Belief that Holy Communion should be open to all w ho believe in Christ and confess sins before God 92% 87% 84% 10 0 % Belief that w e acknowledge our com plete dependence on God US Europe Africa Philippines 82% 78% 10 0 % 92% Belief that scripture is the prim ary source for Christian teaching/living 65% 60% 96% 68% Belief that personal salvation involves mission & service 23

25 A majority of laity and clergy believe their church offers them an adequate opportunity to study and practice the core beliefs of The United Methodist Church. More values driven people have favorable views regarding opportunities to study, pray about and practice their faith. 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 69% All Laity To what extent do you agree your church offers you the opportunity to study, pray about and practice these important aspects of faith so they shape your life? 74% Values Driven Laity 68% 65% Functional Driven Laity Personal Connection Driven Laity 76% All Clergy 82% Values Driven Clergy 71% 70% Functional Driven Clergy Personal Connection Driven Clergy Percentages reflect respondents who answered strongly agree. 24

26 Core Values 25

27 More than half of respondents find all of the defined core values extremely important in their Christian journey. Somewhat lower emphasis is placed on connectional values of the church. How important is each of the following core values in your Christian journey? 100% Clergy Laity 90% 80% 70% 60% 82% 82% 77% 69% 57% 60% 82% 79% 79% 75% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Actively reaching out to assure the involvement of all persons Percentages reflect respondents who answered extremely important. Faith in Jesus Christ is expressed in work for justice and by providing for the needs of all Belief that UM Christians share a special relationship and should work together to make the world more loving & just Belief that God expects us to actively seek and welcome all into the body of Christ Belief that Christian life is formed/guided by scripture, tradition, experience and reason Younger Younger constituents (<45) (<45) are are less less likely likely to to find find the the following core core values values extremely important: Belief Belief that that U.M. U.M. Christians share share a a special special relationship (54%) (54%) Belief Belief that that Christian Christian life life is is formed/guided by by Scripture, tradition, tradition, experience and and reason reason (69%) (69%) 26

28 The core values of the church are considered extremely important in Africa and the Philippines. All are considered of somewhat lower importance in Europe; this is especially so of the connectional values of the church. How important is each of the following core values in your Christian journey? 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 80% 98% 88% 83% 76% 92% 76% 73% 90% 88% 65% 54% 98% 100% 81% 62% 96% 88% 78% 40% 30% 28% 20% 10% 0% Actively reaching out to Faith in Jesus Christ is assure the involvement of allexpressed in work for justice persons and by providing for the needs of all Belief that UM Christians share a special relationship and should work together to make the world more loving & just Belief that God expects us to actively seek and welcome all into the body of Christ Belief that Christian life is formed/guided by scripture, tradition, experience and reason Europe Africa Philippines US Percentages reflect respondents who answered extremely important. 27

29 28 Respondents believe the core values are important to the church. Only one-third of respondents believe the church provides an opportunity to discuss the core values of The United Methodist Church. To what extent do you agree that these core values are important to The United Methodist Church? To what extent do you agree that your church provides study opportunity to discuss these core values? 100% 100% Clergy Laity 75% 65% 69% 75% 50% 50% 39% 31% 25% 25% 0% Agree Strongly 0% Agree Strongly

30 29 The opportunity to study and discuss core values is lowest in Europe and the U.S. To what extent do you agree that these core values are important to The United Methodist Church? To what extent do you agree that your church provides study opportunity to discuss these core values? 100% 75% 98% 92% 70% 100% 75% 86% Europe Africa Philippines US 60% 56% 50% 50% 39% 32% 25% 25% 0% Agree Strongly 0% Agree Strongly

31 Practices of Faithful Discipleship 30

32 31 Prayer and worship are considered extremely important practices. Giving, study and working for social justice are given somewhat less emphasis by laity. How important is each of the following practices in your involvement in faithful discipleship? 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 80% 76% 89% 80% 73% 67% 81% 68% Clergy 72% Laity 64% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Private & public prayer Percentages reflect respondents who answered extremely important. Regular w orship w /others Generous & regular financial giving Life-long study of the Bible & the teachings of Christian faith Working for social justice and actively caring for all w ho suffer Younger respondents (<45 (<45 both both clergy clergy and and laity) laity) place place less less emphasis than than average on on giving (clergy (clergy = 65%; 65%; laity laity = 60%). 60%).

33 All practices of faithful discipleship are considered extremely important in Africa. The importance of giving is low in Europe. How important is each of the following practices in your involvement in faithful discipleship? 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 66% 100% 64% 79% 72% 92% 68% 85% 88% 76% 71% 64% 96% 68% 72% 68% 92% 60% 68% 50% 40% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Private & public prayer Regular worship w/others Generous & regular financial giving Life-long study of the Bible & the teachings of Christian faith Working for social justice and actively caring for all who suffer Europe Africa Philippines US Percentages reflect respondents who answered extremely important. 32

34 Issues of Importance for Church Focus 33

35 Of the issues presented, addressing health issues and addressing disagreements about homosexuality were seen as least important for the church to focus upon. How important is it for the church to focus upon each of the following issues? To draw from scripture for everyday living To care for children at risk 74% 76% 74% To reach out to the unchurched 73% 82% To end racial division in the Church 66% 71% To end racial division in the world 56% 58% To prevent & end war 51% 53% To confront gender inequality in the Church To maintain connections w/christians 48% 51% 53% 53% Percentages reflect respondents who answered extremely important. To start new churches 52% 62% To care for refugees around the world 51% To address disagreements about homosexuality 42% 49% Clergy Laity To address health issues (AIDS, malaria ) 47% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 34

36 Younger laity place less emphasis on several issues. Age differences: As a general rule, younger laity see less importance in several of the issues explored To maintain connections with Christians around the world (53% vs.44%) To end the problem of racial division in the world (58% vs. 50%) To confront the problem of gender inequality in the church (53% vs.45%) To prevent and end war (53% vs. 43%) To address health issues such as HIV/AIDS, etc (47% vs. 40%) Younger pastors find it less important to address racial issues (71% vs. 50%). 35

37 Most issues are seen as more important in Africa and the Philippines than in the U.S. and Europe. How important is it for the church to focus upon each of the following issues? To draw from scripture for everyday living To care for children at risk 73% 70% 72% 76% 88% 92% 100% To reach out to the unchurched To end racial division in the Church To end racial division in the world 38% 44% 52% 59% 68% 74% 84% 80% 76% 96% 90% 100% To prevent & end war To confront gender inequality in the Church To maintain connections w/christians 40% 48% 51% 54% 56% 50% 70% 72% 76% 76% 84% 92% To start new churches To care for refugees around the world To address disagreements about homosexuality To address health issues (AIDS, malaria ) 22% 56% 42% 49% 46% 52% 38% 45% 60% 80% 76% 68% 72% US Philippines Africa Europe 98% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Percentages reflect respondents who answered extremely important. 36

38 Organizational Issues 37

39 38 Only one-third of respondents agree strongly that the General Conference is an effective way to manage the church. How important are the following organizational expressions today? 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 14% 9% 42% 43% 13% 12% 35% 32% Clergy Laity Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Neutral Disagree Somewhat The General Conference is elected from lay and clergy members to meet every four years to set priorities, revise church laws and oversee the finances and policies of the church. This is the only body that speaks for the whole church. Is this a prudent, useful and effective way to manage the church? Note: Questions asked of online respondents only.

40 Only one-third of respondents agree strongly that the apportionment system is effective. A substantial proportion of clergy disagree somewhat that the system is effective. How important are the following organizational expressions today? 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 21% 13% 12% 10% 33% 40% 36% 35% Clergy Laity Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Neutral Disagree Somewhat The church collects money to support ministries beyond the local church by assigning a fair portion of the cost to each congregation. Is this an effective and efficient way to pay for work beyond the local church? Clergy Clergy in in the the Northeastern Jurisdiction are are less less likely likely than than average to to be be positive about about apportionments: only only 20% 20% agree agree that that apportionments are are effective and and efficient. Note: Questions asked of online respondents only. 39

41 In general, less than one-third of clergy are highly satisfied with the organizational structure of the church. Please rate your agreement with the following statements regarding the organizational structure of the church. 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 4% 12% 13% 46% Clergy 14% 14% 10% 28% 30% 15% 15% 5% 13% 35% 33% 30% 37% 26% 10% 12% Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Neutral Disagree Somewhat Don't know 3% 6% 12% 37% 42% The organizational structure of the church provides excellent ways for the church to function easily within the laws of the state and country. The organizational structure of the church is excellently designed to assure quality in the way The United Methodist Church does its work. The organizational structure of the church provides for a good balance in the use of time and money between local, regional, national and international ministries. The organizational structure of the church uses too much of the available financial and human resources in administration and bureaucracy. Small cliques and power groups in churches exert too much influence. Clergy Clergy in in the the Western jurisdiction are are even even more more critical critical of of the theorganizational structure of of the the church, especially on: on: Provides ways ways for for the the church church to to function easily easily within within the the laws laws of of the the state/country Is Is designed to to assure assure quality quality in in the the way way The The UMC UMC does does its its work work Provides a good good balance in in the the use use of of time time and and money money 40

42 41 In general laity have similar but slightly more positive views than clergy regarding the organizational structure of the church. Please rate your agreement with the following statements regarding the organizational structure of the church. 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 4% 6% 17% 41% 32% Laity 9% 11% 17% 16% 19% 22% 35% 31% 20% 20% 6% 11% 22% 29% 32% 4% 5% 14% 33% 44% Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Neutral Disagree Somewhat Don't know The organizational structure of the church provides excellent ways for the church to function easily within the laws of the state and country. The organizational structure of the church is excellently designed to assure quality in the way The United Methodist Church does its work. The organizational structure of the church provides for a good balance in the use of time and money between local, regional, national and international ministries. The organizational structure of the church uses too much of the available financial and human resources in administration and bureaucracy. Small cliques and power groups in churches exert too much influence.

43 Pastoral Issues 42

44 Pastors generally do not believe that they are well trained, expertly supervised or assigned to churches in an appropriate manner. How strongly do you agree with the following statements regarding the effectiveness of pastors in The United Methodist Church? 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 4% 14% 17% Clergy 7% 8% 15% 21% 18% 19% 50% 40% 30% 20% 45% 46% 38% 10% 0% 20% Pastors are extremely well trained 14% 13% Pastors are expertly supervised in the assignm ents to local churches The way pastos are selected/assigned to churches is excellent Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Neutral Disagree Strongly Disagree Strongly Younger pastors (<45) are are more likely to to believe that that they they are are well well trained. 43

45 Laity are not as hard on pastors as they are on themselves How strongly do you agree with the following statements regarding the effectiveness of pastors in The United Methodist Church? 100% 90% Laity 4% 6% 9% 11% 11% 80% 12% 14% 19% 70% 60% 17% 50% 41% 42% 40% 30% 33% 20% 10% 33% 27% 18% 0% Pastors are extremely well trained Pastors are expertly supervised in the assignments to local churches The way pastos are selected/assigned to churches is excellent Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Neutral Disagree Strongly Disagree Strongly 44

46 Respondents in Europe, the U.S. and the Philippines are less positive than those in Africa. 100% What is your agreement with the following statements regarding the effectiveness of pastors in The United Methodist Church? 90% 84% 80% 70% 60% 50% 50% 46% 40% 30% 20% 16% 24% 29% 26% 16% 23% 20% 12% 16% 10% 0% Pastors are extremely well trained Pastors are expertly supervised in the assignm ents to local churches The way pastos are selected/assigned to churches is excellent Europe Africa Philippines US Percentages reflect respondents who answered strongly agree. 45

47 Note: Questions asked of online respondents only. 46 Less than one-third of pastors surveyed strongly agree that they demonstrate excellence in their areas of responsibility. How well do pastors demonstrate excellence in the following areas of responsibility? Clergy Pastors have an extremely demanding job and suffer from lack of sufficient time. 49% 33% 9% 7% Nurturing a warm and loving fellowship 31% 48% 14% 6% Leading vibrant and inspiring worship 26% 36% 18% 16% Guiding spiritual growth for persons in the church/community 29% 45% 13% 12% Helping individuals and groups practice their faith in the community and beyond 24% 40% 19% 14% Teaching core U.M. beliefs and practices 18 % 39% 17% 19% Equipping lay leaders to help with spirituality of the church 22% 37% 14% 23% Helping the congregation to define its primary task 22% 37% 16% 21% Recruiting/engaging lay volunteers to help plan/conduct church activities 21% 47% 15% 16% Organizing/managing the work of the church 19 % 52% 15% 13% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Agree Strongly Agree Somew hat Neutral Disagree Somew hat

48 Note: Questions asked of online respondents only. 47 Laity are slightly more positive about pastors. How well do pastors demonstrate excellence in the following areas of responsibility? Laity Pastors have an extremely demanding job and suffer from lack of sufficient time. 45% 30% 12% 8% Nurturing a warm and loving fellowship 39% 35% 15% 8% Leading vibrant and inspiring worship 35% 33% 13% 12% Guiding spiritual growth for persons in the church/community 35% 38% 12% 4% Helping individuals and groups practice their faith in the community and beyond 30% 36% 17% 12% Teaching core U.M. beliefs and practices 28% 33% 17% 13% Equipping lay leaders to help with spirituality of the church 27% 37% 12% 17% Helping the congregation to define its primary task 27% 35% 15% 17% Recruiting/engaging lay volunteers to help plan/conduct church activities 27% 42% 12% 13% Organizing/managing the work of the church 24% 41% 16% 13% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Agree Strongly Agree Somew hat Neutral Disagree Somew hat

49 48 About one-third of lay respondents believe it is important for bishops to appoint full-time pastors, regardless of the church s ability to pay apportionments. What is your agreement with the following statements regarding the effectiveness of pastors in The United Methodist Church? 100% 90% 15% Laity 6% 10% 80% 70% 21% 18% 60% 50% 15% 31% 40% 30% 27% 20% 35% 10% 22% 0% Clergy Laity Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Neutral Disagree Strongly Don't know It is important for bishops to appoint full-time pastors regardless of their ability to pay apportionments.

50 Serving Youth 49

51 Three-quarters of respondents believe it is extremely important to increase both overall membership and the number of young people active in the church. Please rate your agreement with the following statements regarding increasing membership within The United Methodist Church. 100% Clergy Laity 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 75% 74% 76% 82% It is extremely important to increase the number of persons active in our church. It is extremely important to attract more young people, age 18 to 30, to the church. Percentages reflect respondents who answered agree strongly. 50

52 Fewer respondents in Europe believe it is extremely important to increase church membership. Please rate your agreement with the following statements regarding increasing membership within The United Methodist Church. 100% 100% 98% 96% 90% 80% 80% 76% 86% 70% 64% 60% 50% 46% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% It is extremely important to increase the number of persons active in our church. Europe Africa Philippines US It is extremely important to attract more young people, age 18 to 30, to the church. Percentages reflect respondents who answered agree strongly. 51

53 Pastors believe increased attention to evangelistic activities will attract more young people to the church. Please rate your level of agreement with the following questions regarding attracting young people to The United Methodist Church. The church needs to give more attention/priority to evangelism to attract young people. 46% 59% The church needs more youth-oriented programs to attract young people. 35% 42% Percentages reflect respondents who answered agree strongly. The church needs more gifted, young pastors to attract young people. 40% 38% The church needs more hands-on mission work to attract young people. 39% 43% Laity Clergy 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Note: Questions asked of online respondents only. 52

54 There is relatively little commitment to change or reallocating resources to attract youth. Please rate your level of agreement with the following questions regarding attracting young people to The United Methodist Church. My church is willing to change/add alternative worship options to attract young people. 33% 21% Percentages reflect respondents who answered agree strongly. My church is willing to reallocate resources to attract young people. 30% 27% Laity Clergy 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Note: Questions asked of online respondents only. 53

55 54 Some significant regional differences are evident with regard to the development of programs for young people. In the Northeastern and North Central jurisdictions, pastors are less willing than average to change or add alternative options of worship and music to attract young people. In the Western jurisdiction, pastors are more likely than average to believe that additional hands-on mission work opportunities will attract and involve young people. Largest regional differences are observed on: The church needs to give much more attention and priority to evangelism to attract young people Pastors in the Southeastern and South Central jurisdictions are much more likely than average to agree with this. Pastors in the Western Jurisdiction are much less likely than average to agree.

56 Homosexuality 55

57 Note: Questions asked of online respondents only. 56 About half of clergy and slightly fewer lay members agree strongly with the church s position on the practice of homosexuality. Almost a third disagree strongly with this position. Please rate your agreement with the following statements regarding homosexuality as stated in The Book of Discipline. 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 30% 28% 9% 9% 5% 7% 8% 11% 48% 45% Clergy Laity Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Neutral Disagree Somewhat Disagree Strongly The United Methodist Church does not condone the practice of homosexuality and considers this practice incompatible with Christian teaching.

58 Note: Questions asked of online respondents only. 57 Strong regional differences are evident among clergy on the church s position on the practice of homosexuality. Please rate your agreement with the following statements regarding homosexuality as stated in The Book of Discipline. 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 17% 48% 11% 6% 9% 2% 7% 14% 57% 31% Clergy by Jurisdiction 32% 29% 5% 11% 4% 7% 57% 46% 1% 58% 8% 12% 2% 3% 25% Northeast Southest North Central South Central Western Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Neutral Disagree Somewhat Disagree Strongly The United Methodist Church does not condone the practice of homosexuality and considers this practice incompatible with Christian teaching.

59 Note: Questions asked of online respondents only. 58 Similar regional differences are evident among laity. Please rate your agreement with the following statements regarding homosexuality as stated in The Book of Discipline. 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Laity by Jurisdiction 18% 34% 35% 34% 9% 53% 6% 4% 11% 13% 9% 7% 7% 6% 9% 7% 8% 9% 14% 54% 41% 46% 40% 8% 18% Northeast Southest North Central South Central Western Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Neutral Disagree Somewhat Disagree Strongly The United Methodist Church does not condone the practice of homosexuality and considers this practice incompatible with Christian teaching.

60 Note: Questions asked of online respondents only. 59 Majorities of both clergy and laity agree strongly with the church that God s grace is available to all and that families and churches should not reject or condemn lesbian and gay members and friends. Please rate your agreement with the following statements regarding homosexuality as stated in The Book of Discipline. 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 2% 5% 7% 4% 6% 14% 4% 16% 75% Clergy 67% Laity Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Neutral Disagree Somewhat Disagree Strongly We affirm God s grace is available to all and we seek to live together in Christian community. We implore families and churches not to reject or condemn lesbian and gay members and friends. We commit ourselves to be in ministry for and with all persons.

61 Note: Questions asked of online respondents only. 60 Regional distinctions are not as evident on this issue among clergy except in the West. Please rate your agreement with the following statements regarding homosexuality as stated in The Book of Discipline. 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 7% 15% 71% 3% 3% Clergy 4% 1% 1% 4% 3% 5% 4% 5% 3% 4% 15% 14% 5% 18% 76% 76% Northeast Southeast North Central South Central West 69% 87% 3% 2% Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Neutral Disagree Somewhat Disagree Strongly We affirm God s grace is available to all and we seek to live together in Christian community. We implore families and churches not to reject or condemn lesbian and gay members and friends. We commit ourselves to be in ministry for and with all persons.

62 Note: Questions asked of online respondents only. 61 More laity in the Western Jurisdiction agree strongly with this position. Please rate your agreement with the following statements regarding homosexuality as stated in The Book of Discipline. Laity 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 4% 11% 7% 4% 5% 15% 17% 8% 7% 6% 5% 7% 6% 4% 11% 14% 15% 81% 66% 68% 62% 67% Northeast Southeast North Central South Central West 5% 3% Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Neutral Disagree Somewhat Disagree Strongly We affirm God s grace is available to all and we seek to live together in Christian community. We implore families and churches not to reject or condemn lesbian and gay members and friends. We commit ourselves to be in ministry for and with all persons.

63 Future Vision 62

64 In general, respondents are hopeful about the future of their local church, with those in Africa and the Philippines being the most hopeful. 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Please tell me how hopeful you are for the future of your local church? 50% 47% 54% Laity Clergy US Europe Africa Philippines 42% 88% 84% Young Young pastors are are the the most most likely likely to to be be extremely hopeful about about the the future future of of their their local local church. No No significant differences exist exist among among the the different laity laity segments. In In addition, pastors with with functional reasons for for becoming United United Methodists are are less less hopeful than than those those who who have have values based based or or personal connection based based reasons for for being being United United Methodists. Percentages reflect respondents who answered extremely hopeful. 63

65 64 Verbatim comments demonstrate the key drivers of that hopefulness. We have a lot of growth in our area with a lot of new neighborhoods going in. The church is going forward it s growing slowly and more young people are coming to services. Our new pastor is wonderful we haven t had a piano player in over a year and the new pastor sings and plays the piano. Also, the new district supervisor really acts like he cares and wants to see our church survive. I am hopeful because too many people want to see our church survive we believe in our church and our community. We have a very dynamic ministry with a lot of people who are willing to put in time and energy to make it work. We are in the process of building a new facility which is helping to attract new, young families.

66 65 Among those who are not hopeful for the future of their local church, several themes dominate. We re struggling with decreasing attendance as our community has changed. It s hard to get young people to come to church because they are too busy with other things. We have a small, rural church and it is hard to survive in the bigger is better culture we live in. Our congregation is getting older and we don t have any young families joining. I just don t see how we can continue long term. We are struggling to address issues that are relevant to our time. Our financial situation is bleak it will be difficult to continue to meet our appropriation requirements.

67 Respondents also are generally hopeful for the future of the United Methodist denomination, especially in Africa and the Philippines. Please tell me how hopeful you are for the future of the United Methodist denomination? 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 90% 68% 57% 51% 58% 42% Laity Clergy US Europe Africa Philippines No significant differences exist based on on respondent age, income, church size or or segment. Percentages reflect respondents who answered extremely hopeful. 66

68 67 Some examples of reasons for hope for the denomination follow. The teachings and beliefs of the church will provide a strong foundation for the future. The UMC has a lot to offer they are very accepting and open to everyone, regardless of their views. The United Methodist Church has long been a respected denomination I believe that respect will continue and flourish in the future. I am hopeful because a lot of people still treasure the traditional values that The UMC espouses. We are very inclusive, yet we still allow people to express their opinions. The church is growing is other countries that will keep the denomination going regardless of what happens here.

69 68 Reasons for lack of hope for the denomination are illustrated here. Because a lot of people in the church are too liberal and they are gaining steam each time we gather for conference. We need to focus less on social issues and more on the gospel. All of the institutional denominations are losing members. The homosexual issue has driven a lot of people away from The United Methodist Church. The UMC is more interested in serving political causes; they are doing what they feel is politically correct and not what Jesus says is right.

70 Summary Conclusions 69

71 70 Summary Conclusions Core Beliefs and Core Values In general, core beliefs of The United Methodist Church are very strongly held by laity and pastors. Less emphasis on mission and service than other beliefs among laity, especially in the Western Jurisdiction. The core values defined in the study are also seen as extremely important by most but somewhat less so than the core beliefs of the church. Less emphasis on connectional values than other values among both laity and clergy: i.e. that U.M. Christians share a special relationship and should work together to make the world more loving and just. Particularly so among younger members. Sharp contrast between perceptions of opportunities to study and discuss core beliefs and core values. Most see many more opportunities to study core beliefs than values.

72 Summary Conclusions Practices of Faithful Discipleship In general, there appears to be more emphasis on individual spiritual growth rather than discipleship that involves socially directed actions and practices More emphasis on importance of public and private prayer and worship with others And Less belief that personal salvation involves mission and service; Less belief that U.M. Christians share a special connection and should work together to make the world better; Less importance given to working for social justice Particularly so among younger laity 71

73 72 Summary Conclusions Issues the Church Should Address Laity and clergy see the following as the priorities to be addressed by the church: Drawing from Scripture for everyday living Caring for children at risk Reaching out to the unchurched Ending racial division in the church At the bottom of the list are: Addressing disagreements about homosexuality Addressing health issues such as HIV/AIDS and malaria

74 73 Summary Conclusions Attitudes Toward the Organizational Structure of the Institutional Church There is general dissatisfaction with and criticism of the organizational structure of the institutional church. The General Conference system and the system of apportionments are viewed as extremely important by just a third of both clergy and laity. The organizational structure of the institutional church is seen as excellent in its design and functioning by only small numbers of people. This critical attitude is particularly strong among clergy, and even stronger among clergy in the Western Jurisdiction.

75 74 Summary Conclusions Pastoral Issues Pastors are particularly critical of their own level of training, supervision and performance in their various areas of responsibility. While laity do not evaluate pastors highly, they are less critical of pastors than pastors themselves. Full-time pastors are generally seen as desirable, especially by laity regardless of the ability of the church in question to pay its apportionments.

76 75 Summary Conclusions Serving Youth There is strong agreement among both pastors and laity that churches should focus on attracting and serving young people. Pastors believe increased attention to evangelistic activities will attract more young people to the church. There is, however, less clarity on other mechanisms for serving young people in the church. There is little commitment to change and to reallocating resources for the purpose of serving the young.

77 Summary Conclusions The Issue of Homosexuality About half of clergy respondents and slightly fewer lay respondents endorse the church s position that it does not condone the practice of homosexuality. About a third, however, disagree with this position. There are significant regional differences from the above generalization: People, especially pastors, in the Northeastern and Western jurisdictions disagree with the church s position. Pastors in the Southeastern and South Central jurisdictions strongly agree with the church s position. A majority of both clergy and laity endorse the church s position that God s grace is available to all and that families and churches should not reject or condemn lesbian and gay members and friends. 76

78 77 Summary Conclusions Future Vision In general, about half the respondents in the U.S. and Europe are optimistic about the future of their local church and the denomination. Clergy tend to be somewhat less optimistic than laity about the future of the denomination. Both laity and clergy in Africa and the Philippines are very hopeful for the future of their own local church and somewhat less so about the future of the denomination.

79 78 Overview Passion and Commitment for the Beliefs Values Practices of the Church Hope And Concern for the Future Remedy and Change necessary for the Structure and Function of the Church Organizational Structure, Pastoral Issues, Growth

80 Appendix 79

81 80 Survey Structure: Comments This survey among clergy and laity formed the benchmark for future measures to evaluate change over time. Martec has a few comments and recommendations for the structure and process.

82 81 Survey Structure: Comments Respondent Cooperation and Participation Respondents, when contacted for the phone survey, were very cooperative. We believe that describing the survey purpose on the UMC Web site was helpful in this regard. In today s environment, most people are jaded about surveys, and the endorsement helped to provide a level of credibility. Respondent cooperation gives us at Martec high confidence in the findings. The online survey also received a good response. While samples for online surveys can sometimes be suspect, we believe the endorsement and publicity from the UMC Web site helped to direct an appropriate range of people to the survey, providing a better sample.

83 82 Survey Structure: Comments Measures Over Time This survey established a comprehensive benchmark against which future measures can be compared. The comprehensive survey may be repeated in its entirety every 2-3 years to evaluate change. Much of the data for many of the topic areas (e.g. core beliefs) are unlikely to change rapidly. Shorter versions, focusing on specific issues, (especially those topic areas where communications or other work will be done by the church and where changes are expected) may be undertaken more frequently. The measures in the survey will provide a useful benchmark for these versions as well, if repeated as they are.

84 83 Survey Structure: Comments Geographic Measures The focus of this survey was the U.S. We have high confidence in the measures we have generated for the U.S. By design, less focus was placed on other regions for this initial measure. Data from these other countries provide us with a high level view of opinions and attitudes in these regions. For future measures, consideration may be given to following a similar model and focusing on one or two particular areas at a time. This enables a deeper measure of an area and a greater ability to use the data to develop a focused strategy in that area.

85 84 Survey Structure: Comments Gaps While we have confidence that the sample in the U.S. was truly reflective of the makeup of The United Methodist Church, some categories of people did not have adequate representation in the sample: specifically, young people. This is because membership of the church leans toward older people. However, since youth is highly important to the church, for future measures we recommend an additional young module, specially screened and recruited for the study. While this will add to cost, we believe the insights gained will be valuable. We also believe it is important to stress that, while data were obtained on the types of programs that may attract youth to the church, these data emanate from older constituents. We strongly recommend that these questions be asked of younger people as well.