We are very decentralized. Our churches are independent and autonomous. But we have a high degree of goal integration. He readily conceded, ''Southern Baptists do not have a rich tradition of ecumenism. It is not a compelling model,'' sparking some laughter.
Catholics have America's lowest divorce rate.
These covenants have involved Mainline and Evangelical Protestants working at the grassroots with Catholics and some Jews. Draft a statement of goals for strengthening marriage by making it a priority in local churches and by underscoring the importance of marriage to the broader culture - a statement of principles that a wide range of Christian leaders could sign. Lend the moral authority of organized Christianity endorsing the importance of marriage in an advertising campaign that might be adopted by the Ad Council. Agree on a World Marriage Day that honors God's first institution, perhaps endorsing a campaign already begun by Catholics on the Sunday closest to Valentine's Day. Opinions expressed are not necessarily shared by members of the Coalition.