As the more conservative or fundamental Christian voices rose to dominance in communications in the United States, today's popular culture most often views only one face of Christianity. Many people who have been shunned by literalists and those for whom the conservative doctrine is no longer acceptable are no longer practicing the Christian faith. Therefore, a more visible presence of progressive Christianity in our culture will afford those disenfranchised an opportunity to practice their faith with integrity. Preaching which encourages progressive Christians to share their faith beyond the church through private conversation and public witness will result in new church growth and an increase in worship participation. As those who have left learn that there are church communities which accept them and allow them to think independently, healing will occur. The thesis examines the steps involved in creating a progressive culture of witness first by preaching to persuade people why it is important for them to speak up and then by preaching to help congregants articulate their own beliefs. During the implementation period, worship attendance and church membership increased by 37%.
