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Reasons for denominational switching

Reasons for denominational switching. Denominational switching refers to the transfer of followers from one Christian denomination to another. This phenomenon is far more common in Protestant denominations than in Catholic or Orthodox groups. Catholic and Orthodox Christians tend to have a higher level of denominational loyalty based on their appreciation of their own distinctive histories, traditions and liturgies..

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Reasons for denominational switching

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    1. Denominational Switching

    2. Reasons for denominational switching Denominational switching refers to the transfer of followers from one Christian denomination to another. This phenomenon is far more common in Protestant denominations than in Catholic or Orthodox groups. Catholic and Orthodox Christians tend to have a higher level of denominational loyalty based on their appreciation of their own distinctive histories, traditions and liturgies.

    4. Reasons (cont) Protestants, especially younger ones, will more often shop around for a new denomination based on factors such as liking the minister, style of worship and music, proximity to home, sense of community and activities (such as prayer groups, Bible studies and youth groups) provided by a particular congregation. People no longer remain in a particular denomination simply because their parents and grand-parents belonged to it or because they share the same ethnic background with other church members.

    7. Reasons (cont) In contemporary society loyalty to a particular community has to be earned. With the contemporary ethos of individualism people focus on their personal needs rather than the needs of their traditional communities. People are looking around for the 'right' congregation in which to get involved one that meets their needs, expresses their faith in culturally appropriate ways and addresses their concerns in meaningful ways.

    8. Characteristics of Pentecostalism The ongoing growth of Pentecostalism is largely based on denominational switching from other non-Pentecostal Protestant churches. Pentecostalism is an evangelical and charismatic strand of the Christian tradition. Evangelical Christians place great emphasis on personal conversion, a fundamentalist/literal approach to the Bible and downplays the importance of liturgy and ritual, focusing rather on dynamic preaching of the scripture.

    11. Characteristics (cont) Charismatic Christians place a strong emphasis on the gifts of the Holy Spirit such as 'speaking in tongues', prophecy and faith healing. The 1996 census reported a massive increase of 60% in the Pentecostal figures over the past 10 years. This is partly due to the fact that Pentecostal groups attract many people who have been disaffected by other Christian communities.

    12. Characteristics Pentecostalism is well known for its emphasis on music (e.g. Hillsong), especially contemporary music with sophisticated production and presentation. This is particularly appealing to the younger generation who often express dissatisfaction with the staid nature of worship in traditional churches. Many people also chose to join Pentecostal denominations because of the strong sense of community and charismatic leaders.

    14. Leaving? However, research indicates that many people leave Pentecostalism after about two years - indicating that for many it is exciting and involving in the short term but unfulfilling in the long run. This phenomenon is known as the 'revolving door syndrome'

    15. Pentecostalism

    16. Trends Historically , Pentecostalism has seen increases in membership during times of uncertainty and anxiety. Many believe that the economic uncertainty and pessimism, which has characterised much of the past two decades, has contributed greatly to the attraction of a religious way of life, which offers clear cut and definite answers to complex and often troubling circumstances.

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