CFP: Religious Congregations and Urban Revitalization--panel

Call for Panelists:  Religious Congregations and Urban Revitalization:
Studying Religion and Social Change in the "Post-Industrial" City,
American Studies National Convention, Detroit, Michigan, October 12-15,
2000

In recent decades, urban congregations have responded to a number of
social and economic issues, including industrial decline, housing
shortages, the racial/ethnic evolution of neighborhoods, and
gentrification.  In the process, congregations have transformed their
churches' missions and relationships with surrounding communities.

We are seeking participants for a panel on religious congregations and
social change within "post-industrial" cities.  Potential panelists might
explore such topics as the role of congregations in urban renewal,
congregations as sites of social movements, housing programs connected
with churches, or congregational responses to immigration.  We are
particularly looking for panelists who explore new methods or new sources
for the study of congregations and for studies that focus on Midwestern
cities.  The time period is open but most studies will probably focus on
the more recent past, such as the 1970s to the present.

Community members, activists, and scholars from a variety of discplines
(geography, sociology, social work, religion, history, anthropology, urban
planning, community service) are encouraged to respond.  

Please e-mail or fax a 1-page abstract and c.v./resume by January 7, 2000
to Paul Schadewald, CSO, Macalester College, 1600 Grand Avenue, St. Paul,
MN  55105.  (651) 696-6030 (fax) or schadewald@macalester.edu