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Church Answers Research Uncovers Surprising Perspectives of the Unchurched in New Study
NASHVILLE, TN, UNITED STATES, September 13, 2024 /EINPresswire / -- Church Answers Research, a division of Church Answers, is excited to announce the publication of its latest study that delves into the perceptions and attitudes of both the unchurched and churched populations in the United States. The research, titled“How the Unchurched Really Feel About the American Church: New Surprising Insights,” reveals eye-opening data that challenges long-held assumptions about the unchurched and their views on local churches. With over 600 respondents from diverse backgrounds across the U.S., this comprehensive study offers pastors, church leaders, and community members invaluable information to understand better the people they serve. This study was funded by Chaney & Associates , the premier accounting firm for churches.
The study contains several surprises challenging conventional wisdom, but several findings stand out as particularly insightful.
Contrary to popular belief, many unchurched people have historical connections to local churches. In fact, 63% of those not actively attending today were regular churchgoers in their childhood, highlighting that most unchurched individuals have personal experiences with church life.
Additionally, both the churched and unchurched populations believe that churches are generally good. Still, the unchurched often struggle to connect with the congregations around them, with only 38% holding positive perceptions of local churches in their communities. The unchurched have an overall favorable view of churches, but this perception does not necessarily lead to local connections.
A surprising revelation from the study is that non-attendees view the church as more relevant today than many churchgoers. Yet, there is a clear trust gap: while 81% of churchgoers trust their churches, only 30% of the unchurched feel the same. This dichotomy speaks volumes about the challenge facing local churches in building credibility with outsiders. The unchurched believe churches are still relevant but not trustworthy. Despite trust issues, the unchurched are open to making friends through church, though they are often intimidated to visit. Over half of non-attendees believe churches would be good places to make new friends, but many feel unwelcome or uncomfortable visiting alone.
Interestingly, church rules are not a significant deterrent for the unchurched. It's confusion about what churches represent and how they operate that keeps many unchurched individuals from attending. Both churched and unchurched respondents-over 60% in both cases-agree that churches can be confusing for outsiders.
Church Answers President, Dr. Sam Rainer, commented on the study:“We were astounded by the insights this research revealed. It's easy to assume that those who don't attend are opposed to the church, but what we found was much more complex-and hopeful. Many unchurched individuals see the value of the church but need a bridge of trust and personal connection to feel welcome.”
Church Answers Research believes these findings will spark meaningful conversations among churches, Christian leaders, and Christian organizations, especially those interested in outreach and evangelism. With practical steps for bridging the gap between the churched and unchurched, this research will help churches rethink their strategies, embrace change, and, ultimately, connect with more people.
The study surveyed 604 individuals in the United States, representing a balanced mix of backgrounds, including generational, ethnic, gender, and socioeconomic diversity. The survey was divided into two main groups: those who attend church regularly (at least once or twice a month) and those who do not attend regularly (rarely or never). The margin of error is ±4%, giving the findings a 95% confidence level.
Since 1989, Church Answers Research has been answering critical questions about church health, providing actionable insights to pastors and church leaders around the globe. This original research has been used by churches, publishers, businesses, and religious organizations worldwide. Church Answers Research is committed to helping churches understand their communities and navigate the complex challenges of modern ministry.
Visit Church Answers for more information on this groundbreaking study and to download the full report .
Jana Biesecker, Vice President
Church Answers
+1 615-669-8201
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