Prominent writers from different disciplines strive to analyze the Presbyterian predicament and to offer solutions.
Robert Wuthnow (Princeton University) uses sociology to trace the decline of American Presbyterianism in relation to other mainline denominations. Edward Farley (Vanderbilt University) lists areas in which Presbyterians’ heritage of ‘critical modernism’ can be discerned. Barbara Wheeler (Auburn Theological Seminary) develops a doctrine of scholarly theories for understanding congregational life. Benton Johnson (University of Oregon) looks at the demise of a Presbyterian institution, Sabbath observance. Gayraud Wilmore (Interdenominational Theological Center, Atlanta) surveys the history of black Presbyterians in this century. Barbara Brown Zikmund (Pacific School of Religion) examines ordination and how its theology has changed under the impact of women entering the ministry.
