Research shows that Americans are more skeptical of organized religion than in the past, and they continue to distance themselves from a Christian identity. Consequently, our efforts need to recognize that our neighbors are farther from faith and more cynical than in the past. For many, just considering that God may be real is a big step and must be the first step.

Research organizations such as Pew Research, Gallop, The Barna Group, and The Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) have studied trends and attitudes about religion for decades.  These studies reveal several relevant trends.

• The percentage of Americans who identify as atheist, agnostic, or nothing-in-particular has risen to 29% in 2024. This means that fewer Americans claim any form of faith either because they have changed their views or have no religious background. The most recent data does hint that this trend may be slowing.
• Religious practices such as praying, attending religious services, or reading Scripture all declined significantly from 2014 to 2024.
• Frequently cited reasons for leaving faith include:
  • No longer share the beliefs
  • Mistrust of religious leaders
  • Bad experiences with religious people
  • Lack of respect for their doubts and questions
• At the same time young adults are looking for opportunities to fight injustice and oppression, care for the poor, and make a difference. The very things Jesus taught us.

As a culturally responsive ministry we focus on building genuine relationships embodying God’s love for all people and avoid advancing the church without regard for the community.

Notes:

1. PEW Religious Landscape Study, 2024.

2. “Religious ‘Nones’ in America: Who Are They and What They Believe”, PEW Research,  Jan 24, 2024.

3. PRRI Religious Change Survey, Dec 2023.

4. Barna, “What Young Adults Say Is Missing from Church”, Nov 2019

5. Barna, ‘Six Reasons Why Young Christians Leave Church”, Sept 2011.