About 500 United Methodist District Superintendents were asked to provide the names of two or three churches in their districts that were doing vital ministry with Boomers (adults born between 1946 and 1964). From the list received, we mailed surveys to 250 churches in each of the five jurisdictions: North Central, Northeastern, South Central, Southeastern, and Western. United Methodist churches were selected randomly from each annual conference, but with a focus on diverse representation: rural/urban/small town, large/small membership, race/ethnicity. Of the 2500 surveys mailed, approximately 800 were completed and returned. Close to 90 surveys were ruled invalid because they were completed by adults who were not born 1946-64 (and therefore represented other generations) or the surveys contained insufficient data. As a result, the following information is obtained from 709 United Methodist Boomer surveys. The original survey follows page 19 at the end of this booklet.

In part because of their large numbers, Boomers have had a great impact on our society and on the church. Currently, many Boomers are approaching the peak years of their careers. While some are retiring, others are starting a new career; still others are searching for their niche in the world. They assume leadership roles in the community, business and industry, technology, education, and the church. As a generation, they have charted new courses and longed to make a positive contribution to the world.

We surveyed United Methodist Boomers to discern what they are thinking about their faith, religion, and spirituality. In addition, we sought their views about life, world events, and the future. We want to know something about the yearnings of their hearts. As a result, the General Board of Discipleship seeks to provide resources to meet the faith needs of aging Boomers. It is our desire to help Boomers grow as Christian disciples for the transformation of the world.

In analyzing the United Methodist Boomers'completed surveys, we obtained many statistics, numbers, and percentages. We found out:

• What events had the greatest impact on UM Boomers' lives and why;
• How UM Boomers define and view their generation;
• What religious beliefs UM Boomers hold and how they live these beliefs in their daily lives
• What feelings and concerns UM Boomers have about their futures and the futures of their
• children;
• What UM Boomers feel is most important to teach their children;
• Current UM Boomer financial and societal concerns, and their projections for the future;
• How satisfied UM Boomers are with their lives;
• How UM Boomers view aging and their fears about growing older;
• When UM Boomers plan to retire and what they plan to do in their retirement;
• UM Boomer views on social, political, and moral issues.