Commonwealth Policy Center

For the first time in at least eight decades, those identifying with a church congregation are in the minority. According to a recent Gallup poll, only 47% of Americans are members of a church congregation. Over 30% of Millennials and Gen Z have no religious preference at all. These numbers are troubling, especially after enduring a year-long debate over the essential nature of the church. Churches have long been central to human flourishing. This is because the church has taught God’s truth and the authority of Scripture as to how we ought to live. It’s a place of worship, ministry, encouragement, and safeguards in our personal lives. Without church, people often end up choosing poorly.  There’s a lot of talk about healthy communities, but if this is to happen we’ll need to first embrace membership in a Christian community called the church.