Young adults: the "now" of the church -- in the Aug. 27 Reporter

Greetings, e-Readers!

Anne Rice's decision to "leave Christianity" (but not Christ) has generated a lot of conversation -- and her opinions on the church are mirrored in many young people today. Mallory McCall has our cover story this week on young adults that want to be the church, not just support an institution.

Speaking of young adults, the 2010 Global Young People's Convocation and Legislative Assembly welcomed 350 delegates from around the world last month in Berlin and we have a wrap-up of that event. Not to mention a story about youth giving back to the community: Meredith Medlin's ministry in Nashville to feed the homeless.

Many are familiar with Joni Eareckson Tada and her life as a quadriplegic. She has a new book, A Place of Healing and I spoke with her about her struggles with pain and suffering, which now include a diagnosis of breast cancer. You'll be inspired.

In commentaries, Missy Buchanan says the church should help adults learn to care for their aging parents; Rich Peck rattles off a few well-intended phrases that don't reflect God's character; and a missionary shares her love of Nicaragua. We also have the second installment of Eric Van Meter's Tour de Faith and another excerpt from Adam Hamilton's When Christians Get it Wrong.

Don't miss features on churches weighing the decision on whether to invest in aging buildings or ministry, a preacher that takes his ministry to Civil War re-enactment gatherings, History of Hymns and more.

Enjoy!

Blessings,

Robin Russell, Managing Editor