Local Congregations and Social Change.

There are indications that ideological support of activism bath for and against social change may be fount! within the framework of the Christian church, indeed among congregations within the same denomination. A three-dimensional model of ideal types of congregations was developed, with those opposing social change called the "sacred," those supporting it the "secular," and those helping members to adapt to change the "main- stream." In a sample of Presbyterian congregations, differences of this kind were found, and each type was tested for its effectiveness in socializing members to its point of view. Assuming that "mainstream" congregations reflect views of other socializing agencies, "sacred" congregations appear to be more effective than "secular" in promoting a different attitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]