Statistics
According to a 2019 Pew research report, this structure is reflected across Christianity – in North America, Europe and other Christian-majority regions. In the United States, for example, the median age of the nation’s population stands at 38, but among Christians it is 48. By contrast, the average age of those who do not report an affiliation with a Christian church or other religious tradition is 30. This means that while overall American religious affiliation is declining, the drop is concentrated in the Christian population.
Reasons behind the Decline in Christianity
Religious analysts point to a combination of factors that are contributing to the decline in Christianity.
One of the most cited is the impact of modernity, or the idea that increasing access to medical, technological, and scientific advancements has had on religious beliefs. As people become more informed about the world, traditional religious views have less sway.
Additionally, the rise of alternative spiritual practices and experiences such as mindfulness, yoga, and nature worship have made traditional religious observances less appealing.
Finally, for many in the younger generations, traditional religious beliefs no longer fit into their lives — especially those who have experienced political or social turmoil related to religion.
The Role of Denominations
Church denominations are also playing a role in this decline. As in other areas of life, many younger adults are rejecting denominational differences, instead seeking out churches that offer flexible worship times or provide classes and activities that mesh with their own lifestyles.
This trend is seen in the rapid growth of certain churches that are especially innovative and offer more flexibility. Churches that are willing to adapt to meet changing circumstances are also seeing growth, while other denominations may be losing members as they maintain more rigid stances and traditions.
The Impact of Technology
Technology has had an impact on the way many churches and denominations operate, as well as how people interact with the faith. Through applications, websites, and social media, churches and religious institutions are free to reach a new, wider audience, and many have embraced digital technologies to spread their message.
At the same time, digital technology has made it easier for those who have connected with non-traditional religious groups and experiences to find like-minded people and form their own faith-based communities. This includes those who embrace a combination of religious practices, as well as those who identify as spiritual but not religious.
The Impact of Media
Media has also reshaped attitudes towards religion. Increasingly, people are exposed to different religious traditions through movies and television, which can create a more open mindset that questions and challenges the authority of traditional religious institutions.
The internet has also made it easier for people to engage in conversations and debates surrounding religion, which can lead to a better understanding of different beliefs and potentially even acceptance of those beliefs.
Impact on the Church
The overall effect of these trends is that many churches are struggling to reach and keep members. This means churches are having to invest more resources to stay relevant and find ways to attract new members and retain existing ones.
At the same time, many congregations are turning to innovative approaches to worship and other spiritual activities, as well as using technology to spread their message to a greater audience.
As a result, some churches are seeing growth, while others are unable to keep up with the changing times, leading to further declines in attendance.
Avoiding Dogmatism
One of the best ways to ensure the success of churches is to avoid dogmatism. Studies have shown that when churches are supportive and offer alternatives, people are more likely to be loyal and stay in the faith.
Those who are dogmatic in their approach to religion can create significant barriers for non-believers and those who may be on the cusp of joining a faith. By adopting more inclusive views, churches can ensure that their message resonates with those who may only have a passing familiarity with their beliefs.
Political Engagement
In addition, churches need to become more engaged in the political process. With the increasing polarization of American politics, Christians need to find ways to make their voices heard and to demonstrate values-based leadership.
This can help to build trust with those outside the faith and create a more positive image of Christianity. Through political engagement, churches can bring a deeper level of understanding to issues of social justice, religious pluralism, and the common good.
This could help to create a better environment in which church members can discuss their differences and their commonalities, and which could attract more people to the faith.
A Return to the Traditional Roots
Finally, churches should make a conscious effort to return to their traditional roots. By embracing a more holistic approach to religion, churches can reclaim the respect, admiration, and loyalty of those outside the faith.
By connecting back to ancient beliefs and traditions, churches can tell a more compelling story of their faith and its relevance to the modern world.
This connection will help people to understand the importance of Christianity in their lives and in the lives of their families and communities.
Outreach
Churches can also reach out to those who have been alienated from religion. By making their doors open to those who may feel lost or disconnected, churches can show that they are willing to listen to difficult questions, as well as offer guidance and comfort to those in need.
This kind of outreach can go a long way in connecting new or prospective church members to the teachings of Christianity. It can also build trust and foster understanding, which will help to attract more people to the faith in the long run.
Reforming Orthodoxy
Additionally, churches should make a strong effort to modernize their orthodoxies. By focusing on reinterpretations of the Bible and engaging in conversations with theologians and scholars in other academic disciplines, churches can demonstrate their desire for understanding and make themselves more attractive to younger generations.
By reforming their orthodoxies, churches can make Christianity more accessible and attractive to those outside the faith. It can also be an opportunity for churches to address some of the more controversial aspects of their faith, such as sex and gender dynamics, racial issues, and social policies.
Adapting to a Changing World
Overall, Christianity is declining in 2020, but congregations and denominations can turn the tide by adapting to a changing world. By taking steps such as emphasizing the traditional roots of the faith, engaging in political conversations, modernizing orthodoxy, and reaching out to those alienated from the church, churches can successfully attract new members and keep existing ones.
