If statistics provide a snapshot of the denomination’s health, the PCA’s 2009 figures present a blurred picture. According to the Stated Clerk’s report to the General Assembly, membership is up, and the PCA has 47 more churches than it did a year ago. But professions of faith are down, as is giving in every category reported.

Here are a few of the Clerk’s statistical highlights comparing 2009 with 2008:

• Churches and missions – 1,740, an increase of 47.
• Total professions of faith – 9,082, a decrease of 263.
• Total membership – 346,408, an increase of 5,556.
• Total family units – 135,230, a decrease of 309.
• Sunday school attendance – 105,477 which is 4,175 fewer than in 2008. This is reflective of a trend in church life throughout North America.
• Per capita giving – $2,392, a decrease of $116.
• Per capita benevolences – $437, a decrease of $38.
• Total reported contributions –  $699,348,062, a decrease of $17,522,849.