New samples are drawn every three years. Panelists' own ages are related to their conceptions of when life stages start and stop. This survey was initially mailed in November 1997, and returns were accepted until March 1998.
Results are subject to sampling and other errors.
Small differences should be interpreted cautiously. The full report includes a data appendix that presents the percentage responses to each survey question separately for members, elders, pastors, and specialized clergy.