[x]

Like a Tontine?

But as numbers wane so does power or influence, and churchmen don't want that.

[dangus]

Not unlike a Tontine! Had I been aware of that term, I would have used it (and explained it!)

Sadly, influence in modern-day America comes from money, not members. And besides, the conservatives who leave quit spreading their “dangerous” ideas around the congregation, so the church leaders’ own influence grows.