The question of whether church attendance is declining is complex, with varying trends observed globally, nationally, and locally. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many churches have seen a significant drop in in-person attendance. However, this trend is not uniform across all regions.

Global Trends

Globally, Christianity continues to grow, with the number of Christians expected to increase from 2.52 billion in 2020 to 2.63 billion by 20241. However, regular church attendance has declined in many parts of the world, particularly in Western countries.

US Trends

In the United States, church attendance has been steadily declining over the past few decades. Before the pandemic, about 75% of Americans attended religious services at least once a month, but this dropped to 68% by mid-20222. The pandemic accelerated this decline, with many people not returning to in-person services even after restrictions were lifted2.

Local Trends

Locally, the trends can vary widely. Some communities have seen a resurgence in church attendance, while others continue to struggle with low numbers. Factors such as local culture, community engagement, and church leadership play significant roles in these variations.

The Importance of Church Attendance

Despite these trends, attending church remains crucial for many believers. We believe in scripture and that as we approach Christ's return, we will experience a great falling away from the saints. However, assembly is still important, especially in the US, where we have the right to express our beliefs freely.

A Heart Issue

I propose that the decline in church attendance is more of a heart issue than a cultural one. Many people do not see faith in God as important, so they do not value gathering. Yet, the gathering is vital to the community aspect of the body of Christ. Two will always be stronger than one. We grow when we express our faith in God openly through our lifestyle, and sometimes that means gathering with other believers.

Conclusion

While the decline in church attendance is a concerning trend, it highlights the need for a renewed focus on the importance of community and assembly in the Christian faith. By coming together, we strengthen our faith and support each other in our spiritual journeys.