The discovery of strong and compelling congregational self-images binds members together and energizes ministry, according to congregational researchers Carl Dudley and Sally Johnson. The authors conclude that churches are revitalized by claiming the symbols that best articulate self-identity. Thus, churches gain the knowledge to build on their strengths and address their weaknesses. Dudley and Johnson describe five images of churches' relationships to their communities over time, the Survivor, Prophet, Pillar, Pilgrim, and Servant styles, which are found in a wide variety of congregations and situations.

This "Dudley and Johnson have captured many of the real-life, nitty-gritty, bittersweet dynamics of North American congregational life. study suggests there are many appropriate ways for congregations to be in mission. Congregational health comes in all sizes, shapes, and styles."-Philip Amerson, Senior Pastor, The First United Methodist Church, Bloomington, Indiana