Church Refugees

They're called The Dones. After devoting a lifetime to their churches, they're walking away. Why?Sociologists Josh Packard and Ashleigh Hope reveal the results of a major study about the exodus from the American church. And what they've discovered may surprise you... -Church refugees aren't who you'd expect. Among those scrambling forthe exits are the church's staunchest supporters and leaders. -Leaving the church doesn't mean abandoning the faith. Some whoare done with church report they've never felt spiritually stronger. -The door still remains open-a crack. Those who've left remain hungryfor community and the chance to serve-and they're finding both. Sifting through hundreds of hours of in-depth interviews, Packard and Hope provideilluminating insights into what has become a major shift in the American landscape. If you're in the church, discover the major reasons your church may be in dangerof losing its strongest members-and what you can do to keep them. If you're among those done with church, look for your story to be echoed here. You're not alone-and at last you're understood. Share your story at TheDones.com