(ChurchLeaders) A recent study from Barna has surprised researchers by revealing that one in three practicing Christians stopped attending church after the COVID-19 pandemic began. Among other key findings, the data showed declining church attendance was linked to respondents’ age and their emotional well-being.
“These trends highlight the importance of churches continuing to reach out to and disciple the next generation, especially those who are seemingly falling away during the pandemic,” says Barna. “Churchgoers, even those who have stopped regularly attending worship services during the pandemic, want support from a church community.”