In a recent study undertaken by the Episcopal Church, this Postmodern, new generation, numbers about 72 million souls. According to Dr. Thom Rainer who has done extensive studies and opinion samplings, the following are the top ten fears of this new generation. They are offered in descending order. Something bad will happen to my family such as divorce or a 2nd divorce. Robert Bellah in his book Habits of the Heart , published in 1985, was eloquent in presenting his research, boldly declaring that, belief in civil religion in America was absolutely essential and necessary for the survival of society.
Post modernity is an era in which absolutes are local and private rather than societal.
Post modernity has unleashed an individualism that has undermined the civil religion crucial to a participatory culture. Each day in this country another 60 new millionaires are born, primarily through the emergence of E-Commerce, cyber technology, and software research and development. This is a generation yet to see the glorious colors of God's rainbow. Let this cathedral reach out and bring to them a painter's pallet filled with the beautiful possibilities of all the colors of God's rainbow. We cannot be all things to all people.