We live in an increasingly postmodern society. American Christianity, however, is imbued in a modem---even pre-modern--paradigm. As a result, many contemporary religious leaders find it difficult to communicate with t...We live in an increasingly postmodern society. American Christianity, however, is imbued in a modem---even pre-modern--paradigm. As a result, many contemporary religious leaders find it difficult to communicate with their postmodern constituents, as evidenced by declining attendance rates and religious affiliation. The present study explores this dilemma by offering potential implications for contemporary religious leaders to communicate more effectively with emerging/emergent generation(s). The author begins this exploration, first, by outlining the philosophical tenants of postmodemism: its epistemological, ontological, and axiological assumptions. Second, the author delineates several key characteristics of postmodern religious communication. Next, the author offers three practical implications for organizational leaders: (1) increased use of personal narrative, (2) removal of hierarchal boundary structures, and (3) increased awareness and appreciation for divergent perspectives. The author concludes this study with directions for future research.展开更多
文摘We live in an increasingly postmodern society. American Christianity, however, is imbued in a modem---even pre-modern--paradigm. As a result, many contemporary religious leaders find it difficult to communicate with their postmodern constituents, as evidenced by declining attendance rates and religious affiliation. The present study explores this dilemma by offering potential implications for contemporary religious leaders to communicate more effectively with emerging/emergent generation(s). The author begins this exploration, first, by outlining the philosophical tenants of postmodemism: its epistemological, ontological, and axiological assumptions. Second, the author delineates several key characteristics of postmodern religious communication. Next, the author offers three practical implications for organizational leaders: (1) increased use of personal narrative, (2) removal of hierarchal boundary structures, and (3) increased awareness and appreciation for divergent perspectives. The author concludes this study with directions for future research.