Trusting the Spirit Renewal and Reform in American Religion

Can renewal and reform groups rekindle spiritual vitality and fervor in today's religious institutions? Six fascinating case studies of American religious renewal and reform groups demonstrate strategies and principles that will help those committed to the difficult yet necessary work of religious revitalization. "Richard Cimino's well-researched case studies add immensely to our awareness of the substantial and increasing vigor of American religion. His book comes as another compelling rebuke to those still clinging to the passe claim that religion is declining and must soon die." --Rodney Stark, professor of sociology and comparative religion, University of Washington "Renewal movements are as much a part of American religion as church buildings and synagogues, yet it is difficult to stay abreast of the latest of these developments. Which movements are most successful and why? Are they revitalizing all traditions or only some? Should the leaders of religious organizations embrace them or fear them? Combining journalistic and sociological methods, Richard Cimino has written an excellent book that helps us to answer these questions." --Robert Wuthnow, professor of sociology, Princeton University and author, After Heaven: Spirituality in America Since the 1950s "Richard Cimino is a careful recorder and knowledgeable observer of religious trends and brings much-needed attention to renewal and reform movements and organizations that have done so much to shape religion in America over the years. His book, Trusting the Spirit, also provides practical insight into those factors that can help churches break out of a stagnant maintenance mode." --George Gallup Jr., chairman, The George H. Gallup International InstituteCimino, Richard is the author of 'Trusting the Spirit Renewal and Reform in American Religion', published 2001 under ISBN 9780787951603 and ISBN 0787951609.