Congregations and Economic Development

Abstract

Congregations have become an agent for economic growth, particularly in inner-city neighborhoods. More than 20 percent of Indianapolis congregations are involved in programs to provide long-term benefits to residents, including providing job-training and health services. In economic terms, the most important of these effort involves congregations directly engaged in developing housing for low-income residents. “Fresh Currents” looks at congregations that operate neighborhood businesses as a service to residents. “Congregations a Communities” examines the trend among larger congregations to become “full-service” communities for their members, providing not just religious services but recreation and other facilities.