Question Of The Day: Faith In America

I have not seen any changes in my church because we are a God fearing, bible believing group of people. If you are a true believer of the unchanging, everlasting God, then you do not change your beliefs based upon factors of this world. We don’t belong to this world in the first place, so we are steadfast in our worship of the Lord.

There is a God -don’t need organized and controlling church to tell me how to believe

Yes, St. Gregory’s here in Bluffton has revised its music to the 60′s and just about driven the young people and young thinkers out. Very boring at the 11:00 Mass, and you can tell by looking around at the folks; disengaged.

I have seen an increase in my church which happens to be Catholic

I belong to a Catholic Parish. Our church attendance is growing. Participation at Mass and catholic educational sessions is also growing. Thanks be to God!

The polls you take from New York just don’t represent the American most of us know. You live in a bubble up there as far as religion or faith is concerned. It shows everyday on Good Morning America and other news shows. The skeptics will one day understand that God made us and his Word is the only Truth on this planet that we can rely on.

I’ve noticed the gradual shift from people ascribing to some brand of Christianity to people saying they believe in God to people being completely silent about their faith.

It is time for humanity to grow up, and come to grips with reality. There is no Santa, there is no Tooth Fairy, and there is no “god.” Belief in a deity (by whatever name) is a dangerous delusion, which we can no longer afford.
Fortunately, more and more I see those around me recovering from these voluntary mental illnesses; this is a trend which instills in me hope for the human race.

We live in the Detroit area and have noticed a dramatic increase in our church attendance. We normally drop our numbers in the winter months because of snowbirds. This year we have not dipped at all in attendance, but have increased. This happening in what ABC has called one of the worst areas to live in the United States. I do, however, believe it has to do with us having a FANTASTIC, friendly church that loves God and each other wholeheartedly.

My Methodist church is reaching out to the community even more to help people during this time. God is present and well in our United States. Thanks for asking!

What you people at ABC News also need to report, is that Jehovah’s witnesses, have had a 50% increase since 1990. Of course it would be too much for you guys to really present the news as they are. Talk about poor investigative reporting. Let’s only always tell part of the story.

Weare not losing our religion wem are just becomming non denominationalist
why do people insist on calling a denomination a religion

in my community i have found more people going to church. it seems to be a social event as well. people here are spiritual as well as religious…this change has occurred in the last 10 years. the parking lots are full at the churches saturday nights and sunday mornings.
i am a nonbeliever of both so i find religion to prey on the weak. don’t hate me!!!!!

In our community I see more Christians leaving their “church” for the “Community church” which is allowing them more freedom to worship God & Jesus & the Holy Spirit and not so much “just going to church”. Our community has a church based college and I see former graduates making the change to more “spiritual encompassing worship styles”. Whether that is more the evangelical style or not, that is what the young people from ages 19+ (which would include the 50+ young like me) are seeking…

No difference whatsoever in my community,when it comes to faith,the only difference i noticed is misinterpretation of the Holy bible in most of the churches this need to be change

I haven’t seen any change like the one mentioned in your story. In fact, I see the exact opposite. At the Catholic church; Saint Maria Goretti in Arlington, Texas, the church is packed in morning mass (whether it is the 8:00, 9:30 or 12:00 mass) every Sunday. You have to get there early or you will be left standing in the foyer of the church…and I mean 30 minutes EARLY!
The same at Confession and Saturday evening mass…it is standing room only.

My religious community only seems to be growing. I am a Bahai and a firm believer in God. That much doesn’t changes no matter what religion one is tied to.

I found your story on religion to be very incomplete. There is a movement to non standard churches, Our church has grown from 300 to 2500 in 9 yrs. You also did not mention the church of christ. It seems you story was slated to the increase in non believer. I do not think that is tue. The worldm is in a mess and I think more people are going to church. Thanks.

Decrease in attendance particularly among the young.
Services and music should be more uplifting. This could bring some back.

Our church has seen an increase in young families, and I have noticed an increase in other church’s in the area.I am Catholic and the other are different denominations.

Our church has had a great increase in attendance, and finances, in spite of the economy. We have been in “Phase one” of our new church and have almost paid it off and are beginnine to work on “Phase 2″ because we have almost outgrown our building already! People are wanting answers to the economic crisis, etc. and are seeking Bible believing churches.

I was not surprised to see the downfall of the labeled faiths. I have many friends in writing groups that I communicate with on a regular basis and we all have a personal story attaining to God. Many of the homepages that you will see are the those that may I say could be “judged”? Yes they can, and on many occasions they have been judged on the page or in person. Where have they been judged? All over even in the church. Judging is a natural thing that I think we almost cant help and remains a part of us. But one thing that is different here is many know what mistakes they have made and really dont need an inhumane reminder of how awful we are. Love thy neighbor as thyself sometimes is overlooked while sitting in that pew if you have a shorter dress or maybe no panty hose. No one wants to feel bad and made to feel incompetent when one is simply coming into the house of God, where He is suposed to meet us as we are. Did the people that call that their church home forget that memo? This could be looked at as judgemental, but I really dont mean it that way. I am really very saddened by this and I did not see it in the non-denominational church as much.

Our church has had a great increase in attendance, and finances, in spite of the economy. We have been in “Phase one” of our new church and have almost paid it off and are beginnine to work on “Phase 2″ because we have almost outgrown our building already! People are wanting answers to the economic crisis, etc. and are seeking Bible believing churches.

What I’ve noticed is that, since the ascendancy of Pope Benedict, the more liberal side of the Catholic Church, the folks in the pews concerned with social justice and not so tied to ritual – has been curtailed systematically.
I live in a town that used to have one of the most progressive Archbishops in the U.S. Now – to sit in a pew on Sunday is a droning bore of people who barely mumble back a reponse – spoken or sung. The pendulum has swung. The songs are all back to ones from the 19th century and the emphasis is on kneeling and standing – rather than feeling engaged and enlivened.
I’ve gone to church every Sunday for 55+ years – and for the first time, find no inspiration there at all. A Jesuit priest friend attended a parish Sunday Mass (he typically offers Mass in his own community & school) and was appalled at how boring is was. . . even he wondered that the people had to have a deep faith to even attend, because the service was in no way spiritually nourishing.
That’s what’s changed . . . the nourishment is gone. It’s flat, non-life giving. Parish priests read written sermons and speak in monotones. Yikes – like they really need to work this hard to drive away even more Catholics.

Biased against Catholic Church? With 57 millions Catholics in the US with growing attendance, why were we ignored on tonight’s Newscast about religious trends?

Nobody asked me:) I was raised Baptist, converted to Catholism at 40 and now at 51 my faith in what the Lord has promised is the only way I get through each day. Once a successful Realtor, today, I have returned back to school to acquire my accelerated Bachelor’s in nursing. If it wasn’t for my faith, formal and otherwise, I would not be at peace and experience the joy that I have in my life. In 2008, I lost 70% of my real estate income. This year has proved to be very quiet thus far. However, I know that I will survive and overcome, but only through my faith and the peace that I find from my personal relationship with Jesus Christ, my Lord. Unfortunately, we are living in a greedy, glutinous and Godless society. Our problems have not arisen soley from a dysfunctional president. May God Bless us all. Teri

I was raised Catholic, and we raise our 2 children as Catholics. As I sit in mass, and look around I see mothers all over with their children. I notice the ones around me, most with wedding rings. Where are the fathers/husbands. As a wife and mother it is incredibly difficult to carry the cross for the family alone. I am one of those mothers…I know. What happened to going to mass as a family? Why have so many men abandoned the church and their family in that way?

I attend 180 church in New York City. We are originally from Staten Island, but we were able to launch a 2nd site in Union Square in September 2008. It has only been about 6 1/2 months and I have seen tremendous change in our community. There have been people who never heard of the gospel message of Jesus Christ walk through the doors of AMC Loews Theatre (our church site) and surrender their lives to Christ. I have witnessed atheists, nominal Christians, pagans (also known as the party-goers, club promoters, etc.)do a complete 180 change. People are finding purpose in their lives at a very young age! It is so exciting and amazing to see the power of Jesus Christ move in a place like New York City. This is how I know that God is real and alive today. And so, if any one is curious or angered by this, or has been longing for something bigger, or has been seeking for something more in their life, feel free to check us out:

I am surprised that organized religion has survived as long as it has since it has so few answers for the realities of everyday life. Blind faith with no concept of taking responsibilty for oneself cannot lead to long term solutions for life’s problems. We need to take look to ourselves for inner strength and not accept the dictates of organized religion which is more concerned about power than it is spirituality. The churches have become social organizations adept at extracting money from members but not providing realistic answers. If I hear, “it is God’s will” one more time, I will scream. Until we take responsibilty for ourselves and not rely on mythology, disillusion and fantasy will continue to disappoint those misled by religious leaders like the pope and TV evangelists.

I am a Roman Catholic and have always had my faith in good times and in bad.
It is always nice to hear that people have faith in their hearts.
I just hope that these “new” born again preachers do not take advantage of those who have turned to God for support.
Don’t ask them to donate a % of their income so you can live in a mansion.
Prayer is free!

God still lives. Come see us in Baytown Texas. Acres of new churches being constructed with growing congregations.

After seeing your broadcast I was upset you did not include “Earth based” religions. The Wicca/Pagan community is growing quickly. People are increasingly turning back to the “Old Ways” of worshiping the Goddess and God. All life is sacred and there is only one race…the human race. The Judeo-Christian belief does not teach that. Each denomination says they are the true religion and all others are wrong. I can understand how people are leaving your churches because you do not preach tolerance or acceptance but condemnation, lakes of fire, eternal punsishment if you do not believe the same as the leaders and on and on and on. Wicca teaches one basic truth…”Harm none”…how can you make it any simpler???
When churches and it’s leaders start preaching and living what they preach… live together, stop judging others, leave that up to the creator. We all have the same goal just different methods…accept it…deal with it.
Blessed Be…

I find it amazing that the Media with the most BIGOTED and ANTI-Christian group of people, like Diane Sawyer, Robin Roberts, Chris Cuomo and Charles Gibson are asking questions about something that they disdain and know nothing about. The Catholic Church in America is alive and well, and growing tremendously! But ABC doesn’t know or show this because all the newscasts ignore the Catholic Church especially – e.g. the day the new Archbishop of NY was announced Good Morning America totally ignored it and made NO mention – and they also ignored the March for Life on January 20th. But that’s OK, because the Christian religion in America is based on GOD not ABC. And good religious people in America do not listen to the false and uninformed anti-religious media like ABC anyway! In a nutshell, ABC knows nothing about what is happening in our Churches, only what is happening in the lives of those who don’t practice religion at all!

I am Catholic and have just left the St. John Evangelist Church because our new Bishop and Pastor are destroying the wonderful Vatican ll church we had for 22 years. I belong to Voice of The Faithful who’s mission is to support the victims of sex abuse, support the good priest, and Change the Church.
This Bishop and Pastor want pay, pray and obey. They love Power This is not what Christ taught

I have faith in God. I do not have faith in organized (or disorganized) religion. When many of the religions in this country became political movements and pursued lobbying efforts to impose their will on the rest of the country, I tuned them out and turned them off. I don’t think I am alone. Many of my friends and neighbors are more afraid of the religious lunatics in this world than they are of God.

Over the past three years I have seen my church,Park Cities Baptist Church in Dallas,Texas, grow from 2 morning services to five morning services. Despite your story, we are seeing MORE people coming to the church. Our problem isn’t having people leave the church- it is finding a seat each morning, and if that is our biggest problem I am OK with that. I pray that Christianity expands in Dallas, and all over the world so that everyone may know the love,and peace of God- and that God has a plan for every single person.

In central rural Pennsylvania, traditional religion is lacking in meeting the needs of the person. The Evangelical churches are growing in faith, strength and gaining more people from 20-40 in age. The elderly population hasn’t stopped attending. The reason I believe is due to the need to have a strong faith in a Power who gives calm in the midst of financial and political turmoil. The church community is also a support system in which people find a helping hand. God is consistent, never wavering and has unconditional love for mankind.

I stopped attending church a few years ago, but I am now looking to worship once again in a local church. I’ve never stopped believing, although my faith wavers from time to time. I read and study each and every day. I am presently a Theology student and will attend the Seminary in the Fall.

We watched the comments made by Charles Gibson on tonights newscast and it never once mentioned that since 1990 the Catholic religion has increased by 11 million faithful worshipers.

I was raised Baptist and I believe the reason so many people are backing out of denominations is the hypocrosy in the church. I have noticed that people are not abandoning faith so much as they are abandoning “organized religion”. In my community the non-denominational and intra-denominational chruches are growing and thriving because they preach the Word, the love of God and accept people as they are without regard to how they look, etc…Organized religion is definitely suffering because too many people have had the most “religious” people let them down and have not been people that can be look up to.

What about the Jehovah’s Witnesses? My friend has said that they live by what is in the bible, and they have been growing every year? Is this a real religion?

It’s insane–I can’t pay people to go to church with me where I live (NC)! Community neighbors ‘say’ they are Christian–but modern day “idols” of self, money, work, etc say otherwise and blatant sin (drunkeness, sexual immorality) is rampant.
Man-made religion with it’s rituals and traditions are a dead end–read the book of Galations in the New Testament! Jesus Christ stated He is “the Way, the Truth and the Life! (John 14: 6)
Don’t be fooled… the world today is just as Jesus Christ said it would be before His Second Coming (Luke 17: 17). Please don’t mock/scoff the Almighty…deathbeds are coming, and Jesus Christ IS coming back–be ready and get right with God (Romans 10: 9)–and then get back to a bible-believing/preaching non-denom Christian church!

It doesn’t matter what you think or what you try to make work in your life. God is the same. Just because you say your lifestyle is right, doesn’t make it so, the teaching of scripture is our guide. God is still the Father of Jesus and IF you would read the Bible you would hear from God how much he loves you just the way you are….but he does encourage us to go and sin no more….and sin is still sin…we try to tell ourselves lies…but the truth still stands and will continue until …and after the end of our time. Go read the Truth….it is God’s blessings…

Great post from
“Anonomous Catholic Mother/Wife”

My church is currently without a pastor as ours retired last fall. Despite this, our attendance has remained very good. I think that in this economy and during uncertain times, the people in my community are turning to their faith rather than away from it. I personally cannot imagine NOT leaning on God during tough times.

In my estimation the Catholic Bishops have become deaf to most concerns. They show an overwhelming tendency to carry the “company line.” This is the 21st Century and they have to be more open to change, or the percentages of people leaving the faith will certainly rise.

I have noticed 2 definite changes in my place of worship. First, we have doubled in size in under a year. Our last service was packed. Second, the move of the Holy Spirit has been so strong the past several months.
In the community, I have noticed a lot of people searching for answers and they are hungry for the truth. If they don’t find what they are looking for in church, then they will fall away.

Maybe it’s a good thing that people have lost faith, if that means they have lost faith in organized religion. I, too, have lost faith in church because there seems to be more emphasis on rules and appearance than on relationship with God and each other. I don’t think Jesus would be pleased with many of the churches representing Him today. Many churches are more like social clubs for the elite or court rooms handing out indictments instead of safe harbors for people who are broken and hurting, who need compassion and hope with a balance of love and truth. Many people who leave organized churches have not lost faith in God–quite the contrary. They are hungry for authentic relationships and a deeper intimacy with God. So after spending 58 years in an organized church, I identify myself simply as a Christ-follower, as a broken person on a journey alongside other broken people who need God.
Brenda Branson

As a high school religion teacher for 28 years in Catholic high schools, I have to acknowledge that I see a trend among many of the families with children who attend Catholic schools. When I first began teaching in the ’80s it was unusual for students to not attend Mass regularly with their families but today it is the opposite. I am aware of more and more families who do not attend church at all or only at Christmas or Easter. It is my observation that as the traditional nuclear family structure has changed with time, fewer families have a strong commitment to religious values. I have polled my students and many do not feel that it is important to be part of a faith community as a family. Most of these same students rarely experience regular family meals where the value of community has its very root. It is no wonder that many young people today do not see the value of a faith community when they do not experience family as community.

With regard to the loss of faith in this Country ? Why should this be a surprise given the past 40 years. We have had the Roman Catholic Church claiming to be the True Religion and with a Tradition leading right up to Jesus himself, have its modern day Archbishop Apostles and their priest ministers lie,
publicly profess celibacy and have sex on the side, sometimes with women,girls or little boys..do everything in their power to dominate and pound down the truth of the reality, take 35+ years just to acknowledge a problem, cover up and marginalize the sexually assaulted, take 35+ years in order offer any money and attempt at PREVENTING such behavior , Partake in secret trials in Rome to prosecute offending priests, Give Basillica Assignments to Cardinal Law and go on business as usual with the same old system and unchecked power positions. Rape, Pedophile Rings, Aggressive Callous Lawyers, Power Lust and a refusal to have checks and balances. And that is just in this country never mind worldwide. Is there any wonder people have lost confidence in their Offices ? Sorry , I don’t see where the mystery is.

I was raised in a small town with about 20 different churches. I went to all of them at one point or another. As an adult, I realize they have all changed dramatically. Has your research team done any real investigations into the Christian organization of Jehovah’s Witnesses? They ARE true Christians, right down to following in Jesus’ footsteps as far as the preaching and teaching work. Their organization is growing in leaps and bounds, not just in the US , but all over the world. Might be interesting to look into what true faith is all about.

I noticed starting with the Bush administration in power that the Baptist church I used to go to in smalltown Minnesota became much more political and zealous about Republican issues. Things actually became mean spirited in some cases and the Jesus commandment to care for the poor was thrown over for anti-gay and anti-choice messages. It was time to move on from that atmosphere as it no longer was spiritual, but political.
It is very sad that this is happening in a small church that used to be filled with kind and sincere folks that were concerned with the well-being of their neighbors to becoming politicized. Disheartening, and I’m pretty sure it is happening in many places.

I am so disappointed in people that call themselves christians. We had to close our church at the end of last year due to lack of commitment on the part of the members. It amazes me how when people are in “need” they can show up. However they don’t want to put any effort into the needs of the church. A friend that had a church also closed due to lack of membership. However people know where to find you when they need something

We have 2 Services 7000 In each Service.We are gaining about 50 people a week,here @ Thomas Road Baptist Church. Mostly people like me 40 And Under.Liberty University had to stop admitting Students so many want to come here.Unlike most universities they just lowered there tuition. Great to see about 20000 people worshiping god on 1 day.In a city of about 100000.

I am not an atheist. Just totally non-religious. To believe, one must suspend rational, reasoned thought. I would suggest that folks should study the Age of Enlightenment, especially Voltaire. For me, giving up religion in college made life so much easier to understand. If there is a deity, fine. If there isn’t,OK. I doubt that there is any particular providence, that he/she/it helps a baseball player get a base hit. In my family, we went from a religious grandmother to a non-religious grandson and great-grandchildren. We are all happy, well-adjusted rational folks unburdened by religious sophistry.

To Answer Kenny’s question. They go by Bible principles and live their lives in that manner not just when they are in their congregation. We are all sinners except for Jesus who was the first witness to God and it is written thought the Bible. We all live in the world and it has gone from bad to worst Read- 2nd Timothy 3:1-5 is one example of the world today in the last days!

Our Assembly of God fellowship in Illinois is going from 2 services to 3 starting next week in order to let all who want to worship together do so. We are a ‘family’ that loves and helps one another. We believe in Jesus Christ and put our trust in Him and His word, not in man. Are we perfect? In no way~~only God is perfect. His gift of salvation is one we want to share with others. ‘if you hold to His teaching, you are really his disciples. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free!’ Try it and see~~if you don’t believe it is true what have you got to lose?

Actually, you only covered Christians and those of Jewish faith,.. or athiests. But I have to say that I have seen the Wiccan Religion community triple recently. Those that are not religious and Wiccan, but are non-Wiccan pagan and do not follow Wicca are also increasing in numbers. But those that belong to the religion of Wicca have tripled, statistically.
From what I understand, the earth-based religion of Wicca is one of the fastest growing religions in the USA at this time.

People are not losing faith in God. They are losing faith in the ‘church’ system of control and tradition. Most are seeking to listen to their spirit[God] and follow their own hearts.

I used to go to a new thought church which I know is growing. But now I find God in nature as does most of my friends. It’s all semantics and perspective. I know there is a force bigger than myself but in these times it is hard to believe in the God that the churches profess when I am a good person having bad things happen to me. God fearing? I produce enough fear in myself, I don’t need God to put the fear in me.

Noticing a difference? Absolutely, come to Denver and visit Cherry Creek Presbyterian Church where over 600 people are reading the Bible (yes, the entire thing!) in 90 Days. We are 80% of the way there. Faith is ALIVE and well.

I attend a United Methodist church in Tennessee. The difference I personally see is growth – particularly in our “contemporary worship” service which is informal. It is the 2nd of 3 sunday services; clergy wear no robes, and attendees feel free to dress more casually. The music is uplifting and “happy.” That MAY be the attraction. It is for us, as well as home-hitting short sermons.

My family and I used to attend church on a regular basis. The focus became money for things such as building additions, at one point we were even told to not worry about our retirement and give all our money to the church. (We do give as instructed in the Bible)
This combined with all the recent hypocracy within the “mega-churches” has steered us away from organized religion. We are firm believers in Christ and do not think that this was his idea of how his “church” should be. Non-believers are confused and turned off. This has led a lot of people to turn from organized religion…

Faith in America: I believe your numbers are not as accurate as you may think. You did report evangelicals have grown so that may account for some of the percentage of loss in the other denominations. But you have not taken into account how many of those who have left the church, who are now attending home churches. ( The Revolution, by George Barna, and Houses that Change the World by Wolfgang Simson) These home churches are everywhere and must be counted if the question is Faith in America.
There is also a fast growing and very important part of the church you are not even counting the Messianic Congregations. Included in these congregations are many who have left the modern church to follow a more First Century Church and our big brothers the Jews who have come to know the Lord as their Messiah? Maybe some of the Jews in your statistics are those. Since it is in fact their Messiah we follow. We have not shrunk we have grown!
Still Faithful in SC!

Our church has incorporated modern technology including theatrical lighting, computer video projections, improved sound technology, etc….
Our services sometimes include live drama skits, choreographed dance, onstage artists painting and other innovative means of presenting the gospel message.
Our church, Rock Church of Wilmington, NC, continually finds ways to reach out to our community to serve. Last Sunday everyone received an envelope containing varying amounts of cash. The instructions were to find ways to bless people and let them know that Jesus and the church love them. People all over Wilmington were blessed to receive free gas, free food at restaurants, free movie tickets, etc.
Next Saturday our church is hosting a free carnival with lots of mega rides.
What a way to serve our community and demonstrate that christians can have fun!

I’ve noticed two changes in our small Baptist Church..we are growing in new believers and members. As treasurer, I also notice that while tithes are continuing we are receiving more $1.00 bills where we used to receive $5′s and $10′s.

CHRISTIANS OUGHT TO BE FAITHFUL
There are two very obvious reasons that come to view, when Christians read the New Testament, why they should be faithful to God. First, it is necessary, or requisite, to our salvation. I should like to make this clear that it will be perfectly understood by all who read this with an open heart. Our faithfulness to God in worship, with other Christians to honor Christ, constitutes the absolute essence, the fundamental nature of our religion.
1. If we are not faithful, our religion is make-believe and hollow mockery. Much preaching is done by us about faithfulness, but where is the practice? Jesus said: “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life” (Rev. 2:10). When he drew a picture of the judgment in Matthew twenty-five (25), the blessings of eternal life were dispensed to the faithful -to those who were reliable, dependable, and trustworthy. They had proved through life that they were sound and faithful servants of Christ.
2. We can be sure that he will not fail us, as so many of us have failed him. There is no question but that he will do what he says. “God is faithful by whom ye were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord” (1 Cor. 1:9). God is utterly dependable and entirely trustworthy. Are we? “Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it” (1 Thess. 5:24). He will not fail you, but he will keep his promise, fulfill his vow, and complete his work. Out of gratitude for what he has done for us, and his faithfulness to us, we should be faithful to him.

The segiment on Faith in America is a wake up call for all Americans.
II Chronicles 7:14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heavern, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
America is headed for bigger trouble than we are already in if we as a people continue to fall away from the Christian principles this nation was founded on. Yes, I see all around me where people are falling away from God, away from going to church, away from reading or believing the bible. True bible believing Christians in this nation are now the minority. It is time for us (Americans) to turn back to God and to our Christian roots.

People who are lacking in faith are
probably that way because they haven’t
come to know Jesus as their personal
Savior. Knowing God is all about a
relationship not a religion. Believing
in Jesus Christ who died and shed His
blood for your sins so that you can have eternal life through believing in Him is how you have a relationship with Almighty God. “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life, no one comes unto God except by Me” – John 14:6
Anything less is just ritual and going
through the motions, which people eventually leave behind.

The pendulum swings again.
As for me, I can’t reconcile the contradiction of a religious practice that prioritizes ‘faith’ over acceptance and good works. The notion that believing in something but living in hypocrisy will send you to heaven while a lifetime of service without faith sends you to hell? That doesn’t sound like a god of justice, love, or forgiveness–it sounds like a god with self-esteem issues.

We have noticed a tremendous increase in newcomers to our church in WA state!
It’s wonderful!

We’ve seen a large increase in attendance at our church, located in a Seattle suburb. We’ve had to add services, and we’re building a new, bigger church! I disagree with your story, and they way it was presented. As usual it was told with a negative premise.
More people believe, and are more faithful than the news lets on.

I have noticed that the services I attend regularly have become more reactionary and fundamental in their message. I am very pleased to see that as the church attacks the problem of reduced attendance in a very conservative way that attendance and resentment of the church and its denomination DECREASES! I would not attend services were it not for the respect of some of my family members. Spirituality can too be handled with progressive messages and messages of transcendent love of Christ, rather than messages of fundamental fear of God and such.
I would also like to comment on some of the posts that I’ve read about the media being anti-Christian. As an agnostic, it is very clear that the media is all but anti-Christian. I live in the Pacific Northwest and we were recently dethroned as the least religious region in the country. Even from one of the LEAST religious states in the country, I feel constant oppression and bias towards a Christian worldview in the media and the culture. I would recommend those who think the media is anti-Christian to do more research; I would think that they would find perhaps that the media maybe not biased towards their specific denomination of Christianity, but that it leans immensely towards the general Christian worldview.

Here in Goldsboro NC, I see a lot more people going to Church services. One thing that I noticed is that the Spanish channel Univision did a similar report, but failed to mention the growing number of evangelical (no wonder they are losing audience).

As but one of Jehovah’s witnesses I’ve noticed a steady increase in our organization not only nationwide worldwide

Melanie: I really enjoyed your insightful comments about Kayne’s interview. I agree with this perspective and perhaps this explains the poll cited by worldnews, which might have targeted a much younger set.
The changes I have experienced haven’t been in any one church, which I have found pretty much remain the same. Granted, many here report that there have been increased attendance in their respective fellowships. But, the rituals, the theology and sometimes the fellowship remains stagnant, which was also reported here by the dear lady from the Catholic faith, who stated her services were “dead”. Thus creating a “stumbling block” as the Word states, to congregants growing in the experience of the Holy Spirit.
I have changed, while many churches I used to attend remain the same. One small change in the mega church I faithfully served in for over 5 yrs: the addition of an ATM machine in the church lobby. Smacked TO much of “money changers in the temple” and drove other members out as well. This was after I had left there with a broken heart, because, although I got a good dose of the Word there, I also got NO emotional or spiritual support from pastors and other members during especially difficult personal struggles. I stayed away from church for over five years after that and learned to grow close to HIM without a fellowship! GREAT experience of growth and learning HIS Word!
I was furthered turned off the baptists who consistently sent me cards and notes inviting us to church, and yet had NO ONE in their large congregation who would offer us transportation to church. When I did finally buy a car and went straightway, the following sunday, they had a great big plug for their foreign missions program. Seemed strange to me that they would gather interest and funds to help others on the other side of the world, but seemed to care little for their own back yard!
Overall, what I have seen in churches is far too much politicing, self promotion for funds “In the Name” (just a few minutes of the “Campmeeting” broadcasts on TBN and other xtian networks this week showed that) and folks who seem to go out of guilt or someone elses expectation of “righteous” living, rather like sheep being lead to slaughter. You have seen the posts here using the Word about not forsaking the fellowship as more “brow beating” to those who choose not to attend. The mega non-denonminational BUSINESS is booming, even in our hard economic times, due to unscrupulous leaders who preach a “prosperity” message of tithing and reaping, or sowing a seed! It’s very sad to see, and patently UNBIBLICAL! He did not promise that we would all be “keeping up with the Jones’” by having all the material things of the world! Having, in the past been influenced by these types, and now having real discernment into their false teachings and ways is another way I have changed! Sadly, on this matter, mainstream evangelicals and prostetants remain the same.
It would be refreshing to hear of more fellowships which can boast of the FRUIT in their midst, rather than large attendance or a big take from the offering baskets! And a real change in our faith would come from within, not from any influence of a particular religion! The change would show up in MORE acts of generousity, like a church taking their offering and redistributing it to those in need. I know some churches do this, but many more have exhorbitant expenditures on pastor’s salaries, TV and audio equipment, self promotions and advertising instead.
I personally have found that “religion” is not what I was purposed to do with my spiritual life. I now have a very personal, vibrant and growing relationship with my Heavenly Father and His Son! I walk daily seeking only HIS face and lead and allowing HIS Spirit to work through me to touch others who may be hurting, or in mourning, or just need a hug! Thank goodness I have learned that I don’t need to attend church, or even to serve there, to have a life of abundance and faith in HIM!
I attend a small, but growing, home fellowship which brings us such joy and peace! They feed us spiritual food, as well as a meal. Others there give freely of themselves at every opportunity and are tuned in to understand and meet needs when they are able! It is a fellowship of loving, spiritually vibrant people, whose lives evidence how they are growing in the Word. It is, IMHO, exactly how the very first followers of The Nazarene, our Messiach, who were called “Nastarime”, NOT Christians, loved and shared the faith with one another!
For more about the TRUTH of modern religion and the truth of it’s pagan origins check out this site:
For a true, new interpretation of scripture go here:
And to listen in on our home fellowship teachings and discussions you can go here:
In closing, I would encourage all believers to do nothing more than SEEK your FATHER’S face and HIS LOVE living in your hearts will help you grow in RELATIONSHIP with HIM, rather than clinging to man’s interpretation of HIM in religion!
Many Blessings and Shalom!
Baruch Habob Hashem Yahuah!

I am a member of one of the largest parishes in Ct.,St.Lawrence, in Shelton, Ct. and I find attendance is good and many families are with children. We do have “Latin” masses on occasion and I find them uplifting since I am in my 80′s and attended parochial school when Latin was the language of the Church.

Family Radio’s web-site is:
Keep in mind the Bible was written in Hebrew and Greek. Latin is a translation ca. 400 A.D. and not accurate. The King James Version is a more accurate English translation. Please don’t trust some Pastor; Trust the whole Bible. Thank you.

I have seen a significant change in my church. We are more world orientated. Our church opened a ministry school years ago. We had approximately 25 different countries represented from last year. The school now have more people from foreign countries than Americans. On a local basis, we have seen more people wanting to pursue a relationship with God’s son, verses a religion. We have been feeding the poor and busing them into services and helping them with jobs. The church is more into equipping the body to do their part, verses making the ministers do it all. We have seen a phenomenal amount of people world wide experience healings of many types, especially cancer.

At my place of worship we have seen great growth since January and have new visitors every weekend. That is very exciting for a non-denominational church. We had to expand our sactuary and purchase 200 seats from 600 to 800.
We just don’t wait for people to come in, we go out and invite them though outreach.
That is the key to our growth.
Frank

Interesting segment. One aspect that was missing and I believe to be a rapidly growing movement is a form of organized spiritual practice that is inclusive of all spiritual tradition and studies the universal spiritual principles that underlies all major religions (without the dogma, sin, guilt, making anyone wrong, etc.). This movement is gaining significant traction through new proponents such as Oprah. Literally thousands of people attend such a spiritual center called Agape International Spiritual Center in Los Angeles each week led by Rev. Dr. Michael Beckwith (who has made several recent appearances on Oprah, CNN, etc.). Check out the website at
I used to attend this spiritual community, but moved to the very small town of Big Bear Lake, CA and was pleased to find a similar spiritual community there called the Center for Conscious Living website at
The fundamental premise of this movement is that we are literally all ONE (with Original Source/whatever term you want to use and with each other), that all paths are valid, and that each of us can have a direct connection to our God, however we understand that. Now wouldn’t the world be a better place if we all really believed and practiced that philosophy?

Interesting segment. One aspect that was missing and I believe to be a rapidly growing movement is a form of organized spiritual practice that is inclusive of all spiritual tradition and studies the universal spiritual principles that underlies all major religions (without the dogma, sin, guilt, making anyone wrong, etc.). This movement is gaining significant traction through new proponents such as Oprah. Literally thousands of people attend such a spiritual center called Agape International Spiritual Center in Los Angeles each week led by Rev. Dr. Michael Beckwith (who has made several recent appearances on Oprah, CNN, etc.). Check out the website at
I used to attend this spiritual community, but moved to the very small town of Big Bear Lake, CA and was pleased to find a similar spiritual community there called the Center for Conscious Living website at
The fundamental premise of this movement is that we are literally all ONE (with Original Source/whatever term you want to use and with each other), that all paths are valid, and that each of us can have a direct connection to our God, however we understand that. Now wouldn’t the world be a better place if we all really believed and practiced that philosophy?

I wish someone would investigate St Ambrose Catholic Church in Brunswick, Ohio. Since a new Priest came three years ago, there is corruption and deception. Many people have left because of this one person. Complaints have been made to the Cleveland Diocese, but they are intercepted before the Bishop hears about them. A priest that practices lies and deception and willing drives people from the church is not a nice person, let alone being the example of a shepherd to his flock. I recently converted but now feel I made a major mistake. I try not to let him get to me, but I stopped going because I leave there in turmoil instead of the peace that I used to experience. Words can not express the frustration we all feel as our parish is “hi-jacked” by someone on a power trip.

Maybe it’s because we had a terrible hurricane in our city, Galveston, TX. Our churches were damaged and people have left the island for higher ground. But…our church is bulging at the seams every Sunday. Everyone comes to pray and worship to find peace in a world gone mad! So declining worshipers is not our problem here.

I am not surprised that my home church in Rancho Cucamonga, CA has grown. Our children, neighbors, and coworkers live at ground zero of this foreclosure market…Riverside/San Bernardino/Ontario area. More than 1 out of 10 people our out of work. So in a membership of over 5000…that means at least 500 people in our own church is out of work. Talk about Faith? Faith is what hold us togeather and through this crisis. Yeah, maybe nationwide attendance may be down…but there is still a strong mass of us who know that God is right besides us comforting us.
-Daniel Ramos
Corona CA

I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon). In my area I have noticed a stronger desire to be more faithful than ever. I’ve seen people who were life-long sinners completely turn around and follow Christ. I’ve seen addicts of one substance or another struggle through their addictions and find faith in Christ to overcome them. I don’t think that we are headed in a “nonreligious” direction at all–just the opposite.

sorry…conscientious transition – Freudian slip? (: No really, spell check just missed it…

As a little girl I was raised as a Catholic but am now one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. I can honestly say it is because of Jehovah’s Witnesses involvement in the communities across the nation and love for their neighbor that the good news has been sweeping across over 230 lands. In my community here in the Chicagoland area our Kingdom Halls are busting at the seams. We have 5 weekly meetings and EVERYONE is in attendance. I try very hard not too be late or else it may be difficult finding an empty seat!Fathers, mothers, single ones, teens, children…are all involved and worship as a family and in turn we go out and share the accurate knowledge of the good news with others and invite them to attend one of our free public discourses where they can learn amazing facts about the bible and how God is going to bring about incredible changes in the near future. This is not an isolated activity in just one community, but all across the nation, as well as the islands across the sea! Reports of Jehovah’s Witnesses and their active involvement in their communities and in reaching out to all right hearted ones can be read about in the annual YEARBOOK OF JEHOVAH’s WITNESSES. In recent years about 14,000,000 Witnesses and interested people have attended the Memorial of Jesus’ death annually. Jehovah’s Witnesses spend over 1,000,000,000 hours a year proclaiming the good news, and more than 300,000 new ones are baptized! Yes, because they have accepted the invitation: “The spirit and the bride keep on saying: Come! And let anyone hearing say: ‘Come!’ And let anyone thirsting come; let anyone that wishes take life’s water free.”- Revelation 22:17

Non-denom. Because plenty of people uses their religion in this country to “judge others, to fear, and to run away from their responsibility., to appear self-righteousness, while practicing meanness to their fellow brothers and sister. It is my personal relationship with him/her. My God is a forgiving God, who loves me in spite of me. He doesn’t judge, as he hasn’t judged me. I am a child of God, less me do evil or unjust to another one of his children. These of my principals and faith in God. Good Orderly Directions! I am very wary of a person who always talk ‘God”, I Watches Their Feet!!!!!!

When the Old Testament is Translated to reveil, a Babylonian-Egyptian Astrology chart with Greek styled stories, about made-up individuals, one starts to wonder how people have kept their eyes closed for so long. Oh Yea, the Inquistion, The Roman Catholic Church happens to be the most Powerful Country in the World. The helped fund Hitler during World War Two(Fact). They seek to erradicate all other Religions and Free Ideas by feeding off fear and end of the world ideas. Christianity has become more flexiable in the last 100 years to accept new scientific ideas. Every generation of Christianity changes, no longer holding on to their belief that the world is flat, that the universe revolves around the Earth has changed. They even accept Now, that life may exist on other planets, claiming they are our brothers. After all the Pope wears the Egyptian crown, and listens to confessions that the ancient Egyptians practiced, for the weighing of the heart, in the after life. Imagine finding out one day that the city of David, was a place in ancient times to study and worship planet conjunctions. The 40 year rulership of the Kings, aliegns with the 40 years Venus takes to form a Pentagram around the Sun.

Live in the general vicinity of the Bible Belt, work at a State University, so there is quite the contrast here, between those who unquestionably believe and those who ponder the imponderables of existence. But, yeah, things have stayed the same in an ever changing way. What I have noticed is that churches continue to get more and more expansive, trying harder and harder, it would seem, to become the center of each member’s life. Some people around here spend so much time at their church, my guess is their homes are little more than transit areas. Kind of sad, really. I do get tired of the hokey signs, though.
Me.. you guessed it. Don’t go to anyone’s church. Have no use for anyone’s religion. When I die, I expect one of two things to happen. Either my energy will move on to some other plane, which I either will or will not be aware of. Or nothing.
May the Schwartz be with you.

The only reason we go to church, is to worship God. Some traditions have changed in dress and music at my church. Dress is a personal preference. What is in the heart is the main concern. Music is to touch the hearts and souls of the people in order to worship God. We all have our preferences. God looks at our hearts as to why we are there, and that is ALL that matters. For people who refuse to attend church because there are too many hypocrites…..is a cop-out. The Church is made up of imperfect people and will always be that way. When we mix and mingle with them in different ways, it strengthens us to learn forgiveness and love. And that is what Christ is all about. Most importantly, we should know the scriptures ourselves, so we can make wise choices about where we choose to worship. We are blessed to have many choices and the freedom to attend a church in America.

Dear people, The Bible is God’s book and is the only source book of truth.There is a Biblical reason why there is a problem with the corporate church of our day. Let the Bible speak, II Thessalonians 2:1-4 Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ,and by our gathering together unto him, That ye be soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, excelt there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped;so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God. For more information send for the free book ” The end of the church and after” from Family radio .

One Big problem the Church faces today is the fact that the birth, live, and death of Jesus is that many other Pantheons and religions have written the same story hundreds and thousands of years before Jesus was even born. They took the history of Horus, Mithera, Budda, Hercules and tried to create a combined religion to convert those of other beliefs. Look back at the Fall of Rome, and you will see that they didn’t fall, but changed from a government to a religion. The Roman Catholic Church. Don’t be afraid of reading about other religions and other histories, just because one group says so. Who has the most money in the world? The Roman Catholic Church. The most gold reserves? The Roman Catholic Church. In the last fifteen hundred years, the church has destroyed more libraries, tortered more people, started more wars in the name of God than anyother religion or country. Instead of having a pantheon of gods, they call them saints. They worship saints more than they do Jesus. Idols of these saints adorn churches, window paintings, buried in yards for luck, money placed at their feet in hopes of a better life in heaven. Finger bones, vials of blood, pieces of their clothing are touched for health, money, and happiness. Is this what Christianity stands for? Church fathers tell you “give us your money, because you can’t take it with you”. Christianity is not a converative idea. If it was, medicine would be limited only to priests. Or the thought of people unable to pay the entrance fee to a church would not be allowed to enter. If you questioned what a priest says during a sermon, you would be stones or burned and you property given to the church to redistribute. Religion should teach faith in oneself. Not believe in just what they say, because every generation of the church will say something different. Mankind can be a Moral race, without Religion. A difference in religious practices gives mankind just one more thing to ‘Hate’ over. Religion is a box. The leaders of the Church, are like the lid of the box, trying to keep the people in. But the box is too small, and the people want to get out of the tiny little world. When the lid cracks open, many people see that there is a whole new world out there, and wants to learn more about it. Read, Learn, and Don’t be Affraid. But be Responsible for your own actions.

I am Buddhist, and glad I found my Buddhist practice among all the ‘fire & brimstone’ ire that is reflected on this board. But I’m happy to see Christians I know who actually try to love and be there for their brothers and sisters without fanfare, as the man who they follow is said to have done. Nam Myoho Rene Kyo and peace out :)

I’ve found that even middle aged adults have a tough time “fitting” traditional religion into their lifestyle and values. I was raised Jewish, and although not ultra observant, I’ve continued to be involved. I’ve noticed an increasing “disconnect” between time win worship and “the rest of life”, the secular world of work and family that we spend most of our time in. Judaism (and most religion) have enormous resources and insight for spirituality that does not lend itself to an hour “shot” of worship. My goal is to extract key and timeless concepts from Judaism and to focus on those core concepts ‘seeping” into everyday moments. I call this “making moments holy” and since May, 2009, I’ve explored this in a monthly casual music worship community called Shir Hamakom (Song of the Place) in the Hartford, CT area. Without the overhead of formal affiliation, we have been free to explore creative and experiential worship with a focus on identifying timeless values that become a part of everyday moments, infusing them with greater meaning in the shadow of faith.