God is carrying out this work of reconciliation through the faithful preaching of the word of the cross and administering of the sacraments in the church. This ministry of reconciliation is the unique confession and mission of the church. The church is a community of people who confess God's reconciling love in their own lives and warmly invite others to place their faith in the living God through Jesus Christ. It is a community that nurtures its members into full participation in the life of Christ. The church in this nation is going through tremendous change.
Many older denominations are in rapid decline with aging memberships.
Many new denominations and independent congregations are showing rapid growth. The number of persons who no longer profess or practice any religious faith continues to increase dramatically. At the same time, other faith communities, notably Muslims, Buddhists, and Hindus, continue a rapid growth. Likewise, the church throughout the world is passing through significant change. The majority of Christians are no longer European in ancestry.