Although we cannot tell if these particular symbols of change will be a passing fad or enduring aspect of worship, they point to a dynamic of change to which some congregations are responding. Changes in congregational worship, like growth, are associated with size and location, apparently as congregations respond to changing community and cultural conditions. Congregations most committed to increasing diversity are in the centers of metropolitan areas, while faith communities least committed to increasing their racial-ethnic diversity are located in rural areas, villages and towns, where the opportunities are fewer. But change does not come without the emotional cost of conflict. The tensions around change are compounded when congregations are faced with dwindling financial resources.
Congregations report an increase in conflict as their resources become more limited.
Conflicts around worship are more likely to occur in center city congregations, where social diversity is higher and finances are less available. Although the ritual, leadership, content, energy and participation is vastly different among these groups, the great majority feel that their worship is spiritually uplifting and nurtures their spiritual growth. The introduction of new musical instruments marked one aspect of change in congregations organized since 1945. More than merely new styles of musical presentation, these new musical styles are accompanied by a profound shift in the location of religious authority. The authority of scripture remains high for all groups.