A bi-weekly e-mail from George Barna

With the new year rapidly approaching, this week's report is an overview of some of the key findings from our 2002 studies. In looking over all of the studies we've released, one theme seemed to run through many of them: contradiction. The seven contradictions I wrote about in this report include:

· adults and teens claiming to be deeply spiritual and devoted to their faith, but relatively few describing themselves as "absolutely committed to Christianity";

· the widespread attention devoted to the choice of music in worship services when the real issue is not musical style but connection with God ? an issue largely overlooked;

· although most people call themselves Christian and claim they have made a personal commitment to Jesus that's important to them, a minority trust Him alone for their salvation.

The entire report is now accessible on our website, which you can access by clicking on the following link http://www.barna.org or by visiting that address.

GONE FISHING: The issues in this week's report challenge leaders to step up and respond. If you want help doing that, get a copy of A Fish Out of Water, my latest book on leadership. We have a special end-of-year sale on it. Hit the home page icon for details.

FREE LEADERSHIP TRAINING: You may be aware that I work with CCN to provide satellite broadcasts designed to help train church leaders. Here?s some good news to start the new year. CCN is willing to make one of the next two broadcasts available for free if you have a compatible satellite dish. On the January 14 broadcast I'll be joined by John Ortberg, Teaching Pastor at Willow Creek, and best-selling author and counselor Dr. Henry Cloud. We'll be focusing on the character of leaders. On February 11, I'll be hosting Randy Pope, pastor of Perimeter Church in Atlanta; Bishop Harry Jackson, pastor of New Hope Church near D.C.; and Brad Smith, who has been the President of Leadership Network for many years. In that broadcast we'll discuss how to effectively develop the leadership skills of people in your church. Don't miss out on this opportunity. To get the free broadcasts or to learn more about CCN's on-going series of ministry development programs, call CCN at 800-321-6781. Mention the "Special Barna Offer" to put the process in motion.

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