Conserving Their Place in American Life

by Thomas Edward Frank

• Publisher: Wipf and Stock
• Published: 2026

Publisher's Description

In an era of diminishing participation in congregations and widespread church closings, Historic Houses of Worship in Peril is a wake-up call for communities to work collaboratively in finding innovative uses for these iconic buildings. The book presents fresh insights into the stories that houses of worship tell about American history and culture, and calls for a new paradigm for understanding their public place and significance. With the initiative and determination of congregations and communities, sacred places can be transformed into vital assets for social service, the arts, and public gathering. This book is a manifesto for Conserving Their Place in American Life.