From the Editors June 2, 1997 Issue

TO OUR READERS

The Editors

Interest in religion is intensifying daily. Major newsmagazines have featured Jesus—and other religious topics—on their covers. Sales of books (including thrillers) with religious themes are up, and a spiritual quest for truth seems at the top of many agendas.

Even so, we found alarming statistics indicating that, for all this interest in religion, very few churchgoers say they actually feel God's presence during a worship service. As we pondered this paradox, we wanted to see what churches were doing to help their congregations (and communities) feel closer to God. To start with, we found that a church in Middletown, Ohio, had some helpful things to say. Then, as we looked further, we found comments from people in all walks of life who are thinking deeply about the role and purpose of church, no matter what denomination, and about their own service to God and mankind. And be sure not to miss the comments George Gallup shared with us on the importance of being rooted—with others—in the Scriptures.

The author of "Helping out ... or part of the problem?" looks at the challenge of getting along with others. And with many people deeply affected by the trial of the accused Oklahoma City bombers, a woman shares how her own prayer has helped her in "Grieving for the world can be healed."

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Feeling the presence of God in church