Faith Forward: The Future of Congregational Life
Bower Hill Community Church invites you to our 2026 Speaker Series.
Ryan P. Burge's Presentation on March 11 Video - See details below
Andrew Root's Presentation on April 22 Video - TO BE POSTED IN A COUPLE OF WEEKS
Panel Discussion on May 13 Video - TO BE POSTED IN A COUPLE OF WEEKS
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On March 11, we examined the data...
Here's what some of your fellow church members had to say about the event.
"While I was aware of the decline of organized religion in American, Ryan Burge's presentation opened my eyes to the severity of the problem. It left me thinking what Bower Hill might do to keep our church relevant and vital, particularly to the younger generation. The future of church depends on our faithful attention to this issue."
~Betsy Hohlfelder
"Ryan Burge did a brilliant job of bringing data to life to vividly explain the challenges facing our church. He also provided invaluable insights from his own pastoral experience to help us navigate through these difficult times. "
~Tom Green
"Ryan Burge offered a candid and compelling assessment of the current state of church participation in America. Understanding this reality is essential as BHCC works to secure its future. Attending the event prompted me to reconsider my own views on how BHCC should move forward. I believe the speaker series provides an invaluable opportunity for our members to engage with these issues and develop their own perspectives."
~Val Watterson
On April 22, we will learn how congregational life is changing .

Andrew Root has been a professor at Luther Seminary in St. Paul since 2005, where he teaches classes on a theology of ministry, youth ministry, and culture. His books include When Church Stops Working and the six-volume Ministry in a Secular Age series that examines what it means to practice faith in a secular age. Dr. Root explores how today's belief systems are more fragile and contested, leading people to seek meaning through more personal quests. Our speaker will present his ideas on maintaining faith amidst modern challenges, and finding divine encounters in everyday interactions. He is known for an engaging style that laces together stories, theological depth, and humor.
On May 13, we will discuss potential ways forward . . . ​
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Liddy Barlow, Executive Minister of Christian Associates of Southwest Pennsylvania, will moderate a discussion among our guest speakers, each of whom brings unique experiences to the challenges lying ahead in congregational life.​
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Gregory D. Jones is an Adjunct Professor of Theology at Duquesne University. His work focuses on the theological meaning of gaming and the intersection of religion, media, and popular culture. He worships with First Baptist Church of Bridgeville, which currently shares space with Bower Hill.
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Eric Schaffer spent more than 40 years at a major international law firm. As Past President of Rodef Shalom, he is helping guide the merger of Rodef Shalom and Temple Sinai. He will share practical insights on the merger process, challenges, and opportunities for congregations considering similar steps.​
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