Vital Christian Community: Twelve Characteristics of Healthy Congregations

Twelve characteristics of healthy Christian communities and the congregational and personal practices that develop them.

Congregations have been the bedrock of mainline Christian life and practice for centuries but in recent years many have dwindled in energy and impact. Leaders conclude that change is needed, that they can’t keep applying the same models and practices that have served in the past but no longer seem to work.

At a time when all kinds of institutions are being buffeted by swift...