In new study of 1,500 congregations, most said fundraising increased or held steady, but the number experiencing declines grew compared to 2008

“The recession has affected many congregations throughout the United States,” said Una Osili, research director at the Center on Philanthropy. “One-third of responding congregations reported making budget cuts in 2009 and another quarter kept their operational budget the same, not allowing for any increases in the cost of living.”