Church Refugees: Sociologists Reveal Why People Are Done with Church But Not Their Faith

They're called The Dones. After devoting a lifetime to their churches, they're walking away. Why?

Sociologists Josh Packard and Ashleigh Hope reveal the results of a major study about the exodus from the American church.

And what they've discovered may surprise you...

- Church refugees aren't who you'd expect. Among those scrambling for the exits are the church's staunchest supporters and leaders.

- Leaving the church doesn't mean abandoning the faith. Some who are done with church report they've never felt spiritually stronger.

- The door still remains open--a crack. Those who've left remain hungry for community and the chance to serve--and they're finding both.

Sifting through hundreds of hours of in-depth interviews, Packard and Hope provide illuminating insights into what has become a major shift in the American landscape.

If you're in the church, discover the major reasons your church may be in danger of losing its strongest members--and what you can do to keep them.

If you're among those done with church, look for your story to be echoed here. You're not alone--and at last you're understood.

Share your story at TheDones.com