SBC notes a drop in baptisms, attendance

The Southern Baptist Convention has reported declines last year in
several categories traditionally used as markers of denominational
vitality. Dips in baptisms, total church membership, worship attendance
and participation in Sunday school and other Christian education
programs were detailed in the 2010 Annual Church Profile.

Southern
Baptists reported 5 percent fewer baptisms in 2010 than in 2009—332,321
compared to 349,737. Total membership was counted at 16,136,044, a drop
of 0.15 percent and the fourth straight year of membership losses.

"I
pray that all of us will see the urgency of the moment," said Thom
Rainer, president and CEO of LifeWay Christian Resources, which released
the figures June 9. "We must make the Great Commission the heart of all
we do and say. These latest numbers should be received with a broken
spirit and a God-given determination to reach people for Christ."