When it comes to choosing churches, what did "Jesus Christ Superstar" say to us that "Rock of Ages" didn't? We were looking for a message that spoke our language, not our parents', says Dr. Melvin Banks, chairman and CEO of Urban Ministries, Inc., a national religious publishing group. Rock 'n' roll religion still appeals, Banks says, as proven by the staggering popularity of contemporary Christian music. But as ThirdAgers mature and mellow, they recognize that at least a few of Mom and Dad's beliefs did have merit, so many returned, more or less, to the roots they remember.
"People who stray away come back after they explore what's out there," Banks tells ThirdAge News. "They come back because they see the value of what they were taught and want those same values for their own children. They see the shortcomings of life without their spiritual roots."
Mid-American churches -- Episcopalian, Methodist, Presbyterian -- still haven't regained their numbers, says the American Congregational Giving Study. Instead, boomers are heading toward the two extremes of theological belief. The strong conservative, fundamental religions are growing, primarily because they provide clear-cut direction and compelling answers to life's major questions. They require strong commitment and actively seek new members.
