The pulpit stands empty at the front of Stauffer Chapel at Pepperdine University. Photo by Lucian HimesChristianity has been declining in the United States since the late 1970s, according to the Pew Research Center, and amid a shrinking flock, the ministers who shepherd it are experiencing record levels of fatigue.The Barna Group did a study in March 2022 revealing that 42% of … [Read more...] about Burning out Behind the Pulpit: the Struggles of Fatigue in Ministry
Eric Wilson
Malibu Faith Leaders Speak on Student Attendance in Church
Pepperdine students gather for an evening Bible study in Malibu Gathering's Pastor Brian Kelly’s backyard. The devotion was led by church member Cheyene Renner. Photo courtesy of Meagen Renner Malibu faith leaders said they are working to support Pepperdine students and increase their church attendance. In a September Graphic survey of 135 students, only 23% of students said … [Read more...] about Malibu Faith Leaders Speak on Student Attendance in Church
Faith and National Identity
An American flag cradles a Bible, symbolizing the relationship between national identity and religion. Photo by Megan Williams Some 401 years ago, a group of Puritans landed in America seeking religious freedom. And 234 years ago, the Founding Fathers created a system of government that protected religious expression. Still today, religious symbols abound, from presidents … [Read more...] about Faith and National Identity
When Forgiveness Shocks the World
Art by Isabella Teague Sometimes an act of offense is minor, and it takes seconds to forgive. Other times it is incomprehensible, almost impossible to find the means to forgive. After a white supremacist shot nine Black members of Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina, five different family members told the gunman they forgave him, … [Read more...] about When Forgiveness Shocks the World
Pepperdine Students Chase Faith and Community Through Hometown Congregations
Sophomore Serah Hodson poses as she sets up a craft table for the small Bible study she leads on Sundays at the Veronica Springs Church in Santa Barbara, Calif., on March 21. Hodson said because of her church’s small size, the community has been able to gather outside for different events. Photo Courtesy of Serah Hodson Worship looks different today from February … [Read more...] about Pepperdine Students Chase Faith and Community Through Hometown Congregations
