2009 Congregational Economic Impact Study
News reports about how religious institutions across the United States are faring during the current
recession have been an important part of the storyline of this economic downturn. Many people are naturally
concerned about the health and vitality of this important sector of American life. The 2009 Congregational
Economic Impact Study reflects the desire of the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving and the Alban Institute
to shed some light on congregational experiences during the current recession and to
learn from the diverse ways communities of faith are dealing with the challenges and opportunities of this
economic climate. Lessons learned from congregational responses may facilitate future changes in practice.
In this study, we examine how congregations have been affected by and have responded to the current
recession. First, we observe how congregations were impacted financially by the economic downturn. We
then examine what congregations have done for their communities and congregants in response to the recession.
Finally, we look at which types of congregations have fared better during these difficult times.
Publications
to be added to the
Insights mailing list.
Events
Congregations And The Economic Crisis: : A webinar series in partnership with the Alban Institute
Pre-recorded webinars
We have all felt the effects of the economic downturn in our personal and organizational lives. Individuals and organizations of all sorts are wondering what this crisis means in terms of the resources available to accomplish their missions. Congregations and religious organizations are not immune to the forces at work during economic tough times. As institutions that exist to serve congregations and religious organizations, it is the desire of Alban Institute and the Lake Institute to launch a collaborative effort in order to learn more about how this crisis is being experienced by congregations and how they are responding to it. This webinar series is one way we are trying to share what we learn with our constituents in a timely, sensitive and creative manner.
Religious Giving in Uncertain Times Conference
Date: May 4, 2009
Location: Christian Theological Seminary
Read Event Summary
The economic outlook for religious giving and fundraising in 2009 is—at best—uncertain, if not downright sobering. Staff from the Center on Philanthropy and the Lake Institute presented the latest findings and anecdotes on giving trends and strategies. Two expert panels—one representing clergy and leadership from Catholic, Evangelical, Baptist, United Methodist, Presbyterian, and Jewish congregations; the other composed of nonprofit CEOs and managers from the United Way of Central Indiana, Catholic Charities, Shepherd Community Center, the Jewish Federation, and the Islamic Society of North America—discussed how they are learning from the current crisis and moving forward.
Co-Sponsored by the Lake Institute and Christian Theological Seminary
