Date of Conferral

5-6-2025

Date of Award

May 2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Management

Advisor

Dr. Christina Anastasia

Abstract

Declining church membership has reduced congregational engagement, and challenges in fostering self-efficacy and well-being have created significant concerns for Christian church leaders in the United States. Understanding how church leaders perceive and address these challenges is crucial for sustaining faith-based organizations and their impact on communities. The purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore the Christian church leaders’ perceptions of improving their congregation’s self-efficacy, well-being, and membership in Westchester, New York. Bandura’s theory of self-efficacy and Seligman’s theory of well-being grounded this study. The participants comprised 10 Christian church leaders. Data were collected using semistructured interviews. Through Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis, five themes emerged: (a) adapting to generational needs in church leadership, (b) enhancing congregational self-efficacy through leadership development, (c) holistic well-being–integrating mental health into church practices, (d) growth and retention strategies in a changing religious landscape, and (e) building stronger partnerships for church stability. Findings underscored the importance of spiritual practices, leadership strategies, and mental health support in fostering self-efficacy and well-being. Recommendations are to increase collaboration with mental health professionals, develop Christian church leaders’ mentorship programs, and implement holistic well-being initiatives within congregations. The implications for positive social change include the potential for Christian church leaders to strengthen leadership strategies and prioritize congregational engagement to increase membership and develop their members’ spiritual and emotional resilience.

Download

Share

 
COinS