You may have seen this article (click here)
Widely published in today's newspaper's across the country, research from 1990 to current shows a dramatic change in the American religious landscape. What struck me was the increase in people who claim their religious affiliation is None. Now 15%, and growing. How does this change the way we do ministry? Do you know people who would say, None? Ask them in a non-judgemental way, Why? Are you reading this blog and you would say, None? Post some comments as to why? I have my own ideas as to why and how this changes everything for the church, but I want to hear from you.
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About the Blog Author
- The St Andrew Blog
- Charlestown, Rhode Island, United States
- Pastor Jim Hazelwood
2 comments:
I haven't given this a lot of thought, but I won't let that stop me. I think one reason fewer people declare an actual religious affiliation is because of disillusionment with organized religion (organized anything, really). Organized religion has certainly had its share of scandals recently and if you can't trust the Church, whom can you trust, you know? Also, what people and families need and want from a church has changed, and many churches and religions haven't responded in kind. Not to say that a church needs to change its doctrine, but they do have to adjust in order to remain relevant. My 2 cents worth.
I think you are correct. I would only add that I also think the culture's busy and distracting nature (i.e. TV, go go go, entertainment emphasis) has distracted people, and churches are now competing with the Red Sox, the latest movie and concert.
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