Profit and Loss: The Business of Religion in the New Economy

A New Look at the Business of Religion

In Profit and Loss, journalist Michael Lindsay explores the changing landscape of religion in the United States. He argues that the traditional model of religious giving is in decline, and that churches and other religious organizations are increasingly turning to business ventures to make up for lost revenue.

Lindsay's book is based on extensive research and interviews with religious leaders, businesspeople, and scholars. He provides a detailed look at the financial challenges facing religious organizations, and he offers a number of innovative ideas for how they can adapt to the changing times.

The Decline of Traditional Religious Giving

In the past, most religious organizations relied on donations from their members to fund their operations. However, this model is no longer sustainable. The number of people who attend church regularly has been declining for decades, and those who do attend are giving less money than they used to.

There are a number of factors that have contributed to the decline of traditional religious giving. These include:

• The rise of secularism
• The increasing cost of living
• The changing demographics of the United States

The Rise of Religious Business Ventures

In order to make up for lost revenue, churches and other religious organizations are increasingly turning to business ventures. These ventures can take a variety of forms, including:

• Selling goods and services
• Renting out space
• Investing in real estate
• Starting businesses

Some religious organizations have been very successful in generating revenue through business ventures. For example, the Catholic Church owns a vast portfolio of real estate, and the Mormon Church has a number of successful businesses, including a chain of grocery stores and a construction company.

The Challenges of Religious Business Ventures

While religious business ventures can be a source of revenue, they also come with a number of challenges. These challenges include:

• The need to balance the pursuit of profit with the mission of the religious organization
• The risk of alienating members of the religious community
• The need to comply with government regulations

The Future of Religion in the United States

The changing landscape of religion in the United States is a complex and challenging one. However, there are also a number of opportunities for religious organizations to thrive in the new economy. By embracing innovation and adapting to the changing needs of their members, religious organizations can continue to play a vital role in American society.

Why You Should Read Profit and Loss

Profit and Loss is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of religion in the United States. Lindsay's book provides a clear-eyed look at the challenges facing religious organizations, and he offers a number of innovative ideas for how they can adapt to the changing times.

If you are a religious leader, businessperson, or scholar, Profit and Loss is a valuable resource that will help you understand the changing landscape of religion in the United States.