Daniel P. Matthews, Editor: DECONS: Downtown Episcopal Clergy of the New South

ORGANIZATIONAL HISTORY
Account of clergy leaders in prominent Southern churches who gathered in 1977 to troubleshoot diminishing membership caused by urban renewal. By mid-century many downtown parishes had lost congregants to newer, wealthier suburban churches. The crisis inspired five rectors to found DECONS, a fellowship group enabling peers to candidly assess problems and brainstorm better pastoral care for inner city parishioners. Since its founding, the organization has engaged nearly forty member churches in as many cities, with several now in Sunbelt states. Members still follow the founders' protocols honoring candor, confidentiality and reflection. The book serves as primer, record of annual retreats and membership directory.

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